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SEP 2020 – VOL 21 NO 211
bodyshopnews.net
THE WELDER’S
WELDER
Never be
out of date
with the most
advanced
spot welder
available
CEO SERIES: PRO SPOT PRESIDENT RON OLSSON
FEATURES: MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS, WELDING
AUTO INDUSTRY CO-OP INSURANCE UPDATE
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CONTENTS
SEPTEMBER 2020 – VOL 21 NO 211
12 14 19 22 26 29
10 FIX AUTO SOMERVILLE REBRANDED
AND READY FOR BUSINESS
Somerville and District Panels on Victoria’s
Mornington Peninsula is one of the latest repairers to
join the world’s largest independent repair network,
Fix Auto.
12 AMA SIGNALS LOCAL AND
INTERNATIONAL EXPANSION
AMA Group CEO and Executive Director Andrew
Hopkins says he is keen to expand the organisation’s
footprint in Australia and abroad, identifying Malaysia
as a likely destination for the group’s move into Asia.
16 AUTO INDUSTRY CO-OP PREPARES TO
LAUNCH INSURANCE PRODUCT
Auto Industry Co-op Chairman Tod Sarina says the
organisation is building momentum as new members
join ahead of its insurance product launch, expected
around October this year.
REGULARS
07 His Turn 18 International News
08 My Turn 19 Diary
10 Local News 46 Products in Focus
46
4 BODYSHOP NEWS AUSTRALIA
SEP 2020 – VOL 21 NO 211
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CEO SERIES: PRO SPOT PRESIDENT RON OLSSON
FEATURES: MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS, WELDING
bodyshopnews.net and complete
AUTO INDUSTRY CO-OP INSURANCE UPDATE
the subscription form.
24 INTERVIEW: RON OLSSON, PRESIDENT
PRO SPOT INTERNATIONAL
BodyShop News US Correspondent Stacey Phillips
caught up with Ron Olsson, President of Pro Spot
International, to learn about the company’s history
and its plans for the future.
CEO INTERVIEW SERIES
28 NAVIGATING THE GLOBAL PANDEMIC
WITH SYMACH
Global industry supplier Symach says it has kept in
close contact with its customers during COVID-19,
sharing their thoughts and what they have done to
successfully navigate the situation.
ARTICLE
32 YOUR GUIDE TO DIGITAL
MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the
importance of management systems and doing
business online. BodyShop News Editor Darren
House presents some of the best systems in the
Australian market. FEATURE
38 YOUR GUIDE TO WELDING EQUIPMENT
AND TECHNOLOGY
With aluminium and high strength steels now
prevalent in vehicle construction, it’s important to
have the right welding equipment. BodyShop News
Editor Darren House looks at some of the best
equipment in the local market. FEATURE
COLUMNS
20 From the Desk of Andrew Marsh
22 From the USA with Stacey Phillips
44 From the UK with Heather Grant
20 22 44
BODYSHOP NEWS AUSTRALIA 5
A COMPLETE RANGE OF
WORKSHOP CONSUMABLES & ACCESSORIES
ANEST IWATA AUSTRALIA
Ph: 1300 277 729 Fax: 02 9853 2090 Email: info@anest-iwata.com.au
HIS TURN
BY DARREN HOUSE
Like An Episode Of Yes Minister
J
ust when we thought things couldn’t apply to breaches of the Permitted Work a job is ‘essential and critical’ during Stage
get any worse in Melbourne, tough new Premises scheme. 4 lockdown in Melbourne.”
Stage 4 ‘Stay at Home’ restrictions, According to the VACC, the departmental The DJPR email also referred to the list
thanks to an out-of-control ‘second-wave’ email stated: “We can confirm that only of permitted activities appearing on the
of COVID-19, were introduced. services covering essential and critical Department of Health and Human Services
Many automotive businesses that ‘vehicle repair, servicing and maintenance’ website as part of the Permitted Work
remained open during Stage 3 restrictions are permitted to open for on-site work Premises scheme. Under the Transport,
have been forced to shut their doors with a COVID Safe Plan in place. This does Postal and Warehousing sector, the
under Stage 4, though a great number of not include routine servicing, however, table states: “Vehicle repairs and critical
repairers are unclear about whether they would include urgent recalls.” maintenance including disinfection.”
should continue trading. In a video, VACC CEO Geoff Gwilym There’s no mention of “essential”, nor a
In response to this confusion, the Victorian reminded members of the importance of reference to routine/logbook servicing.
Automobile Chamber of Commerce the words forming the phrase ‘essential The VACC’s FAQ page also says repairers
(VACC) published on its website an email and critical’. “Please be careful here,” cannot complete non-critical works-in-
from the state government’s Department warned Gwilym. “It doesn’t say essential progress. “In this case, the only options
of Jobs, Precincts and Regions (DJPR), or critical. It needs to be both – essential are to keep the vehicle in the workshop
after the chamber sought clarification on and critical. On the day, in your workshop, for the duration of Stage 4 restrictions
government advice regarding business you need to make the call on the work you and resume work when restrictions ease,
operation. Noting that the information do based on the circumstances in front of invite the customer to collect the vehicle,
within the email had not been published you, if that vehicle meets that test. Imagine or return the vehicle to the customer via
on the department’s website, VACC said a police officer standing next to you and contactless delivery,” the chamber advises.
it made the communication public in order making their judgement – what would To complicate matters a little further, the
to reassure members that the chamber’s they say? If you think your assessment is VACC says Licensed Vehicle Testers (LVT)
advice is in line with government guidelines questionable, don’t do the work.” can perform roadworthy inspections and
and in the best interest of members. You might be wondering why members repairs relating to roadworthy inspections,
It’s important that members understand need to exercise such keen judgement. as LVTs are deemed to be an ancillary
which businesses are classified as The answer should surprise no one. service to VicRoads. Mobile repairers can
Permitted Work Premises and the The VACC wrote this on its Frequently work at different sites but only if there is
activities they are allowed to perform. Asked Questions (FAQ) website page: no other service provider that can perform
Closing unnecessarily results in lost “At this point, the state government has the work.
turnover and wages, while penalties of up not defined what ‘essential and critical’ What a mess.
to $19,826 for individuals and $99,132 for means and is unlikely to do so. Therefore, Despite the VACC’s best efforts, Gwilym
businesses, and on-the-spot fines of $1652 ultimately members will need to use their said the situation is likely to remain
for individuals and $9913 for businesses, professional experience to assess whether uncertain.
“I need to underscore this message.
This is what we know to date, and no one
can guarantee that further changes and
clarifications won’t be made. As a matter
of fact, you should expect they will be
made,” he said.
“Many members are looking for 100 per
cent clarity on very specific issues, and
I’m here to tell you it doesn’t exist and it
probably won’t over the coming weeks,”
added Gwilym. “The best test to apply, in
relation to work through this period, is to
ask yourself: Am I working within the rules
and within the intentions of the COVID-19
Stage 4 lockdown?”
Darren House
©BBC Editor
BODYSHOP NEWS AUSTRALIA 7
MY TURN
BY MICHEL A MALIK
When Will This End?
C
OVID-19 has managed to disrupt the show. Automechanika Dubai delayed Insurance Australia Group confirms it will
world’s economies and just about its 2020 edition until October this year not pay shareholders a final dividend after
every industry that requires humans before capitulating to the cancellation reporting a drop of nearly 60 per cent in
to operate it. Just reading this issue’s trend, calling it a year and promoting its net profits compared to 2019 figures,
international news stories is enough to 2021 event in June. Even the big one, and Auto Industry Co-op Chairman Tod
reveal the disruptions that international Automechanika Frankfurt, accepted Sarina says the organisation is building
events have suffered – look at the reality and decided to go against its momentum as new members join ahead
trade fairs and shows that have had to own trend of exhibiting every even year, of its insurance product launch expected
reschedule and sometimes reschedule suggesting the safe move was to go next month. In our new series of interviews
again, before succumbing to the fact that for September 2021. This manoeuvre with company CEOs, we chat with Ron
outright cancellation is the only solution upset the applecart and forced two of Olsson, founder and President of Pro Spot
for now. the big European events, Autopromotec International. Our features for this month
It started early this year with AMR 2020 and Equip Auto, to forget 2021 and are on welding equipment as well as
in Beijing being postponed ‘awaiting a reschedule for 2022. And last but not management systems. We have a column
new date’, before becoming cancelled least, the SEMA Show, blaming the courtesy of Ezi-Methods’ Andrew Marsh,
and organisers promoting their 2021 COVID-19 pandemic and concerns that while correspondents Stacey Phillips from
event instead. INAPA in Jakarta decided event facilities and services would be the USA and Heather Grant from the UK
unavailable, decided to bite the bullet have filed their reports. As usual, there are
not to delay, instead cancelling the 2020
and pull the plug. plenty of news stories and products for
edition at an early stage and referring to
2021 as the next show. Automechanika When will this end? you to read about.
I
Ho Chi Minh City postponed its March n this issue, a UK entrepreneur Happy reading,
event until August, before deciding to establishes a new Australian insurance Michel Malik
cancel this year and focus on its 2021 offering aimed at women drivers; Publisher
BodyShop News Australia is part of the BodyShop News group of magazines
Mail: PO Box 505, Casula Mall, NSW 2170 Australia
Tel: + 61 2 9826 7777 Email: info@bodyshopnews.net
bodyshopnews.net
Publisher: US Correspondent: Accounts Enquiries:
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Email: michel@bodyshopnews.net Email: sphillips@radiantwriting.com Email: admin@bodyshopnews.net
Managing Editor: UK Correspondent: Art Director:
Albert Malik Heather Grant Sean Turner
Email: albert@bodyshopnews.net Email: heathergrant1000@gmail.com
Production Enquiries:
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Darren House Andrew Malik Email: sean@pointgraphics.com.au
Email: editor@bodyshopnews.net Email: andrew@bodyshopnews.net Web: www.pointgraphics.com.au
Technical Editor: Advertising Sales:
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Email: lori@automotive-academy.com Email: sales@bodyshopnews.net
BodyShop News Australia is published by: BodyShop News International Pty Ltd | ACN 169 429 592 | 10/2 Ash Road, Prestons, NSW 2170 Australia
8 BODYSHOP NEWS AUSTRALIA
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LOCAL NEWS
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Vale
Long-standing member of the Victorian
Nick Papanastasiou
said Steve. “He was always keen to learn
body repair industry, Nick Papanastasiou, the latest technological advancements
sadly passed away in June. in the panel beating industry to give the
Nick’s son, Steve Papanastasiou, said customer perfect service. He will be sadly
Nick opened his body repair business, N missed because he was well known for
& A Papa’s Body Works in the Melbourne being in the top group of respected panel
suburb of Yarraville in 1974, where over a beaters in Melbourne and he left a good
44-year period he gained a reputation for mark on the industry.”
reliable, quality workmanship. He retired Steve thanked Nick’s customers and
from the industry in 2018. friends for their enduring support of his
“He was known as a genuine bloke who father.
was the perfect mentor in the community The team at BodyShop News extends its
and had the personality to go with it,” condolences to Nick’s family and friends. Nick Papanastasiou.
Fix Auto Somerville Rebranded And
Ready For Business
Somerville and District Panels on Victoria’s “Joining Fix Auto and having a sense of personal obsession with detail and getting
Mornington Peninsula is one of the latest purpose and direction, along with the things right. We focus on the tiniest details
repairers to join the world’s largest odd nudge now and then to stay focused, and treat the smallest blemish or ding as
independent repair network, Fix Auto. made all the difference,” he added. the biggest priority for every customer. We
Owned by Bill Kubeil, the business joined Fix Auto says the business has are relentless in our pursuit of returning a
the brand just before Australia was thrust established a stellar reputation for quality car back to a customer pristine.”
into the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. work performed on everything from heavy Stuart Faid, Vice President Asia and
Despite the challenges this presented, trucks through to PDR. “The work we take Head of the Australian business said
Fix Auto said Kubeil and his team is a reflection of our approach to everything he was impressed with the business’s
remained focused on their transition we do,” said Kubeil. “The big and complex transformation. “It has been a pleasure to
plan and began a significant rebranding jobs have never intimidated us – we have get to know Bill and the team during their
exercise. This included the demolition the skills and the equipment to take these transition. Everyone has been energised
and reconstruction of several parts of the on, so we do. The PDR work stems from my by the re-imagining of the business and
seeing that come to life in what is now
Fix Auto Somerville. I was worried that
the timing would dampen spirits as we
battle with such uncertainty during the
pandemic, but I could not have been
more wrong, if anything it galvanised us
all to make sure this happened and I am
delighted with the result.”
Steve Taylor, State General Manager
for Fix Auto said the business was a
welcome addition to the network. “Bill is
a very well-respected repairer in the area.”
Customers, suppliers and work providers
all say the same thing – great guy, great
business, great repairs. It’s an honour to
have Bill join our network to build on his
Bill Kubeil (left) with Stuart Faid. success to date,” said Taylor.
building, new offices and staff areas, and
reconfiguring the workshop to optimise
vehicle flow and efficiency.
“We always knew we wanted to change
the way the business worked and how it
looked – we knew it could be better, we
just always seemed to be too busy to get it
done,” said Kubeil, who worked with the Fix
Auto team during the site’s transformation.
10 BODYSHOP NEWS AUSTRALIAUK Entrepreneur
Establishes
‘Insurance For
Women, By Women’
UK entrepreneur Sam White has established a new Australian
insurance offering aimed at women drivers. Known as Stella
Insurance, the venture is underwritten by QBE.
Stella is a collaboration between White’s Freedom Group,
investment firm Envest, Bauer Media and Viper Capital. Envest
provided private equity funds, staff support, local insurance
knowledge and access to its Envest Ecosystem, which the
company says leverages industry relationships to connect
agencies with brokers and niche audiences.
MADE IN
USA
Gen Fricker.
Billed as “Insurance for women, by women”, Stella says it aims
to challenge some of the male dominated industries in Australia
and “send conventional thinking into a spin, starting with car
insurance”.
White says she established her first insurance company at
24 years of age and over 20 years built several UK businesses,
turning over more than £18 million ($33 million) and employing
over 200 people.
“I believe in building businesses that work for everyone – the
people they employ, the communities they operate in and the
customers they serve,” said White. “I passionately believe that we
need more women in this environment, in the financial services
sector and in politics. Whoever controls the money makes the
rules, which leads me to Stella – a brand that’s rewriting the rules.”
Comedian and former Triple J radio host Gen Fricker will be
the spokesperson for the Stella brand. The campaign includes a
video series and editorial content running across Bauer Media’s
portfolio of brands and print, digital display and social media
advertising.
Stella will also support female-focused business, with a
percentage of premiums used to help fund the next generation
of entrepreneurs. The company aims to back 10 new start-ups
by 2025. AUTHORISED
DISTRIBUTOR OF
FOR ENQUIRIES CALL (02) 9772 9000LOCAL NEWS
VISIT BODYSHOPNEWS.NET FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS
AMA Signals Local And International Expansion
AMA Group CEO and Executive Director repairs and therefore for AMA, as we’re
Andrew Hopkins says he is keen to expand growing, I think there’s a big opportunity
the organisation’s footprint in Australia for us to pick up more market share over
and into other countries after COVID-19. the next three to five years.”
Speaking on a recent ‘Eureka Report’ According to Hopkins, greater volume
podcast, Hopkins said he believes he can may also result from an increasing car
substantially build on AMA’s current $1 parc and greater vehicle complexity.
billion per year turnover and has identified “What the thought is in Australia is [that]
Malaysia as a likely destination for the because we’ve got population growth in
group’s move into Asia. Hopkins said he Australia… we’ve got positive immigration
is also considering a potential expansion – well we did have before COVID – the car
into the UK market, where he entered the parc would actually grow in Australia as
body shop industry in 1990. well. So, there would be more vehicles on
“[Australia] is a $7 billion industry and the road and although they are safer, they
we’re $1 billion,” said Hopkins. “The UK still crash, but they are more expensive
is consolidated up over 50 per cent, the to repair… AMA’s unique benefit is that
US is consolidated up over 50 per cent, so we’ve got the ability for the training and
there’s a good opportunity for us to carry the tooling to gear up for these new
on consolidating in Australia, but I’ve got motor vehicles and the new technology,
a vision of taking the company on a bit of where probably your average panel shop
a global march now because we have got wouldn’t be able to spend 300 grand on a
Andrew Hopkins.
such great people and great processes calibration tool and the training for candy
with Gemini and Capital S.M.A.R.T. I’d love apple red paints and three-stage pearls, revenue begin to recover, but Hopkins said
to take it into Asia and Malaysia, and even and the equipment and the spray booths, future earnings are difficult to predict.
back to the UK… once we get through this so we see more opportunity for us in the
“We’re pretty confident with the business
COVID so we can travel and get things future.”
and the volumes that we’re seeing, and
sorted, I think there’s a lot more expansion Hopkins also anticipates greater road we haven’t wasted any time to cut out
in Australia, but I do think there is a lot congestion as Australia reopens, leading unnecessary cost in the business through
more expansion on our doorstep as well.” to a higher accident rate. this COVID, so we’ve got reduced costs,”
Hopkins told podcast host Alan Kohler “The thought of our industry, and not just said Hopkins. “We’ve had favourable
that an aging workforce could play a role from me – from insurers and governments, results from the insurers that have helped
in AMA’s expansion. and we are seeing it overseas from China, us with the extra cost in technology…
“I think there will be lots and lots of the TomTom numbers and the toll numbers so we’ve got a little bit of increase in the
repairers fall by the wayside for many – [is] that more people are opting for their repair cost [and] quite a bit of reduction in
reasons, but mainly because the average vehicles as opposed to public transport, the business from cutting out projects that
age of a panel beater in Australia is about so we think we’ll see more volume in the were unnecessary, which happens when
65, so there’ll be a lot of retirees and future, for sure.” you get to a billion dollars.
they’re all [sitting] on three or five million AMA has hibernated 22 of its 186 “With reduced costs and more revenue
dollars’ worth of real estate. [That’s] a lot locations during the COVID-19 pandemic, for the same business, I think it will
of panel shops retiring, so there’ll be less an outcome Hopkins described as an perform really well providing there’s no
and less panel shops available to do the “excellent result”. The group has also seen lockdown.”
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E: autoinfo@sherwin.comLOCAL NEWS
VISIT BODYSHOPNEWS.NET FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS
IAG Profit Down 59.6 Per Cent
Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has underlying insurance margin of 16.5 per
confirmed it will not pay shareholders a cent, compared to 16.6 in FY19.
final dividend after reporting a net profit “Our FY20 reported margin of 10.1 per
after tax of $435 million for the 2020 cent fell outside our guidance of 12.5
financial year, a drop of 59.6 per cent on to 14.5 per cent due to the higher than
2019’s figure. expected levels of natural peril events,
IAG’s insurance profit was down by 39.5 a strengthening of our reserves mainly
per cent to $741 million, impacted by in the liability, professional risks, and
claims payouts following bushfires and workers’ compensation areas, and credit
hailstorms in NSW, Victoria and the ACT, spread effects. COVID-19 impacts on
along with higher re-insurance costs. The our underwriting profit likely offset each
group said lower motor claims frequency, other,” said Harmer.
Peter Harmer.
particularly in April and May, was partially “Our underlying margin was 16.5 per
offset from claims in other COVID-19 cent, impacted by a soft second half owing Harmer said IAG will continue to simplify
affected classes such as landlords’ to high re-insurance costs, lower interest and optimise the group’s core insurance
insurance and travel insurance. rates continuing to impact investment business while creating future growth
Gross Written Premium (GWP) grew income, and a poor performance from our opportunities.
1.1 per cent to $12.135 billion, which commercial longtail classes in Australia.” “We will continue to shift our focus
Managing Director and CEO of IAG Peter IAG said exiting from its India investment, towards customer-led growth – leveraging
Harmer said was “in line with our guidance, which realised a post-tax profit of $326 our data, customer reach and brands to
despite incurring a slight negative effect million, was partially offset by a customer enhance their core insurance business.
from COVID-19 in the second half from refunds provision of $141 million relating The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated
lower new business volumes”. to a number of multi-year pricing issues customers’ adoption of digital channels
The group announced a reported where some customers did not always and we are assessing the opportunities
insurance margin of 10.1 per cent, receive the discounts they were entitled this presents to build on our existing
down from 16.9 per cent in FY19 and an to. strategy.”
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Aussies know a thing or two about how to take a good Fix Auto is the world’s largest independent repair network,
thing and make it better. with over 700 locations in 13 countries taking advantage
of our systems, resources, training and global buying
From ordering your fish with the classic ‘minimum chips’,
to enjoying a glass of red with your steak, there are some power, coupled with the strength of leading
things that just work better together. collision industry brands.
At Fix Auto Australia, we’re all about building partnerships If you’re ready to go one better, call the team
so that your business goes from good to great. on 1300 FIX AUTO or visit fixauto.com.
B E T T E R TO G E T H E R
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VISIT BODYSHOPNEWS.NET FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS
Auto Industry Co-op Prepares To Launch
Insurance Product
Auto Industry Co-op Chairman Tod are in the final negotiations with the insurers got too involved in them,” said
Sarina says the organisation is building insurer regarding claims processing and Sarina.
momentum as new members join ahead assessing. We will probably be ready to “The end game with our OTM guide is to
of its insurance product launch, expected start selling policies in four to six weeks. support our insurance company and have
around October this year. New Zealand is locked in, so it’s all a universal guide for the co-op. The quotes
Sarina told BodyShop News that happening.” will all be laid out the same way, have the
membership interest has exceeded Sarina said COVID-19 will likely rule same terminology and the same times,
expectation, despite the complexities of out a traditional launch, leaving the which makes life simpler for everyone.
COVID-19. organisation to announce the insurance There won’t be avenues to ad-lib and put
“The co-op is operational and taking commencement virtually. your own spin on things because we’ve
members’ calls every day,” said Sarina. “Once we’ve got the insurance product listed everything in the manual, even
Everyone is keen as mustard – they’re operational, we’ll probably have to down to our loadings which self-calculate.
excited and want to be involved. COVID do a virtual launch that’s filmed and The repairer doesn’t have to get involved
has stopped us from getting out there and livestreamed. It’s disappointing but we in trying to work out how much to charge.
spreading the word the way we normally
can only do what we can do,” he explained. It’s going to come up with a figure for you.
would, so that slowed us up a little bit, but
In preparing the OTM, Sarina said the The only variable will be your rate.
we’re still getting heaps of calls so that’s
good. co-op is attempting to address the things “We are the only organisation to have
he says are missing from current times a labour rate calculator attached to
“Car dealers are still in conversation
manuals. our times manual. You have to use our
with us, the Online Times Manual (OTM)
is in its final stages of testing, and we “The current times manuals are totally calculator to come up with the dollar
skewered towards the insurers who figure because our times are real, so
control them. Insurers are not going to you have to have a real rate, not another
have any input into the times manual version of funny times, funny money. It’s a
unless they do a field report. If they think simple calculator, and repairers just have it
a time is not right, they can put in a field ticked off by their company accountant to
report and we’ll research it, but they’re not say they have checked the data going in is
going to be involved. That’s what mucked correct, which eliminates any arguments
up all the other times manuals – the and improves efficiencies.”
Axalta Appointed Coatings Supplier To Bustech
Axalta has announced a strategic all parts and components used in the “Axalta’s experience in the commercial
partnership with Bustech, an Australian production process are sourced from local vehicle industry gives us great confidence
supplier of government and private sector Australian suppliers, delivering economic that they will be able to provide the
passenger vehicles. Axalta says the two development and sustainability for necessary products and support as we
companies will work closely together to Australia. continue to build on the strong platform
develop an innovative product portfolio Based in Burleigh Heads, Queensland, we have, positioning ourselves for
and paint processes to “ensure exceptional Bustech is owned by the Australian Bus future product development with our
quality and timely delivery.” Corporation, which also owns Precision strategic partners,” said Thinus Steyn,
“As a market leader in Australia, Axalta Buses based in Edinburgh Parks, South CEO of Bustech. “We are confident this
fits well with the requirements of Bustech, Australia. Axalta will also work with partnership will help us continue to be a
to be a partner that is tuned into delivering Precision Buses, replicating the model it leading supplier of government and private
quality products and solutions to meet has with Bustech. sector passenger vehicles in Australia.”
customer requirements,” said Steven
Brett, Managing Director, Axalta Australia
and New Zealand. “With more than
150 years of expertise in the paint and
coatings industry, we can leverage our
global experience to deliver local solutions
to the Bustech team and its customers in
Australia.”
Axalta said Bustech designs, engineers,
and manufactures chassis and bodies
for mass passenger vehicles and is
Australia’s largest privately-owned bus
manufacturer. Ninety-five per cent of
16 BODYSHOP NEWS AUSTRALIAINTERNATIONAL NEWS
VISIT BODYSHOPNEWS.NET FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS
Automechanika Dubai Rescheduled To June 2021
Messe Frankfurt Middle East has for Automechanika Dubai. “We’ve been Organisers say Automechanika Dubai
announced that Automechanika Dubai’s in regular contact with our customers, will continue to host its popular free
18th edition, previously rescheduled for partners and supporting associations, webinar series. Six have been held so far,
October 2020, will now take place from 7 and given the current situation, moving with more than 2200 attendees logging
to 9 June 2021 at the Dubai World Trade Automechanika Dubai to June 2021 is the on to keep abreast of the latest vehicle
Centre. logical decision. aftermarket trends and opportunities.
“We did our very best to hold Auto- “We’re responding to our stakeholders’ “While they cannot replace the benefits
mechanika Dubai in October, however best interests, and we’re committed to of meeting face-to-face that a physical
we now have our sights set on 2021, delivering another successful exhibition event provides, our webinars allow us to
when the show will take place just a few next year. All existing exhibitors’ contracts stay connected with our customers and
months ahead of the Dubai Expo,” said are still valid and can be transferred to to offer them some means of business
Mahmut Gazi Bilikozen, Show Director 2021.” networking and knowledge sharing,”
said Bilikozen. “We can also address any
customer concerns and to plan ahead for
2021.”
Organisers say next year’s event
will showcase a number of exciting
elements such as the Innovation Zone,
the Automechanika Academy, and the
Modern Workshop.
The Innovation Zone is a dedicated area
at the centre of the show floor, featuring
presentations and product showcases
from exhibitors that are steering the course
for the regional and global automotive
aftermarket.
The Automechanika Academy will
feature key presentations such as Dubai’s
vehicle parts and accessories trade
in 2020 by Dubai Customs, as well as
AfriConnections, which explores rising
opportunities in the African aftermarket.
The Specialty
SEMA Show 2020 Cancelled
Equipment Market of face masks or shields, frequent hand work and innovation our industry puts into
Association (SEMA) has announced that washing, social distancing, and the the SEMA Show each year. While we are
the SEMA Show 2020 has been cancelled, installation of sanitising stations through disappointed circumstances prevent us
blaming the COVID-19 pandemic and the show floor. from hosting the show in November, we
concerns that event facilities and services “The SEMA Show is committed to look forward to getting everyone together
would be unavailable. furthering businesses in the automotive in 2021 for another outstanding event.”
The cancellation comes after a collision specialty equipment market, and to With a recent SEMA Show survey
industry survey showed more than half of providing manufacturers and buyers with indicating interest in a possible virtual
potential participants were uncomfortable the best opportunity to connect, promote trade show with related live elements,
about attending the show in November. new products and discover new trends,” SEMA will work with industry members
SEMA said it will issue full refunds for said Chris Kersting, President and CEO to determine interest levels on “specific
show exhibitor booth deposits and of SEMA. “We appreciate the spirit, hard alternatives”.
attendee registration fees.
SEMA added that it and industry
members had worked tirelessly to deliver
an “outstanding” event in November,
but mounting uncertainty had rendered
continuing with the event “inadvisable”.
The association added that it hoped the
decision to cancel will bring clarity to an
uncertain picture and help exhibitors,
attendees and partners plan accordingly.
SEMA had hoped to keep the show
running with stringent health and safety
requirements including mandatory use
18 BODYSHOP NEWS AUSTRALIAEquip Auto Adopts New Schedule
The Comexposium Group, its major released, the exhibition will maintain its 2019. In addition to the new timeline, a
shareholder French Vehicle Equipment two-year frequency, meaning it will now new logo and a broader positioning have
Industries (FIEV) and partner French be held in the European autumn of even- been adopted, giving the exhibition “fresh
Bodywork Federation (FFC) have number years at the Paris Expo Porte de impetus”.
announced that the Equip Auto exhibition Versailles. “Equip Auto has a duty to reinvent itself
scheduled for 2021 will now take place The exhibition’s organisers said the to remain in step with its ecosystem and
in 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. new timeline is part of a review which continue to grow, while staying true to its
Although new dates have not been has been underway since the end of DNA,” the organisers said. “To both meet
this goal and maintain the solid ties with
its traditional audience, the show is today
entering a new phase by immediately and
wholeheartedly embracing the sphere of
connected mobility and broadening its
market scope to new entrants.”
“As a result, Equip Auto today vigorously
sets out its ambition and stance: to be the
international reference event in the EMEA
zone for innovation in aftersales and
services relating to connected mobility.
“Deciphering key issues, supporting
professionals and facilitating dialogue are
all the foundations upon which the show
builds to create conditions conducive to
the business development of all of Equip
Auto’s audiences.”
The organisers say the new dates will be
released “in due course.”
Rex Crowther Awarded ONZM
Former Executive Chairman of the New After selling his business, he enjoyed
Zealand Collision Repair Association almost two years of retirement, playing
(CRA), Derek Rex Crowther, was named golf, boating and traveling until the position
as a recipient in the New Zealand Queen’s of PanelTalk magazine editor became
Birthday Honours and awarded Officer of available, which he has held ever since.
the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) Apart from owning his own business,
for services to the motor industry. Crowther was Executive Chairman of the
Crowther has been involved in New NZ CRA from 1999 to 2004, and served
Zealand’s collision repair industry in on the board of I-CAR New Zealand for 10
numerous forms since 1967 when he years, including two as Chairman. He was
began his career as an apprentice panel also on the board of the Motor Industry
beater. He ended up owning Auckland Training Organisation (MITO) for 10 years.
Panel & Paint Group, one of New Zealand’s The team at BodyShop News
largest collision repair facilities, for 28 congratulates Crowther on this remarkable
years before selling it in 2008. achievement. Rex Crowther.
AUTOMECHANIKA SHANGHAI AUTOMECHANIKA DUBAI
2 to 5 December 2020 7 to 9 June 2021
NECC Dubai World Trade Centre
S
Shanghai, China Dubai, UAE NEW DATE
IBIS GLOBAL SUMMIT 2020 COLLISION REPAIR EXPO AUTOMECHANIKA FRANKFURT
19 to 20 November 2020 29 April to 1 May 2021 14 to 18 September 2021
Le Méridien, Monte Carlo MCEC Frankfurt Messe
S Frankfurt, Germany NEW DATES
Monaco NEW DATE Melbourne, Australia
For up-to-date information on trade shows and events, visit bodyshopnews.net/trade-shows.
BODYSHOP NEWS AUSTRALIA 19FROM THE DESK OF
ANDREW MARSH
automotive industry shines in
the depths of depression
D
uring the early 1980s the first active to the body, instead of springs/dampers achieve higher cross-country speeds than
suspension prototype mules were which allow the wheels to flop about was possible with conventional springs/
unveiled by Lotus. I did not one, but gracefully relative to the body. Lotus, dampers. The British Army donated
two stints in the mountainous region of ever resourceful, used brilliant minds to a standard Scorpion tank complete
Norfolk – a totally flat county with a peak make devices that were not much more with alcoholic carburetted Jaguar 4.2
height of 105 metres above sea level – and powerful than 1990 home computers, do litre engine, and the ‘hush-hush’ team
most of it well below this level. what they had not been designed to do, replaced the standard springs with active
On my first stint in 1990 I had the honour and powered the whole system with an oil suspension struts. Jeremy Bliss was the
of meeting the brilliant group of engineers pump driven by a variable speed drive. This engineer, a gentleman who later played
who worked on active suspension. This way the engine could do what it needed his part in the Thrust SSC land speed
was the Lotus ‘hush-hush’ department to, and the pump could be driven at a fairly record car.
that created nearly 100 active suspension constant speed. Did I mention where the The tank was prone to either not working,
prototypes for vehicle manufacturers, pump came from? A Rolls-Royce Pegasus or apparently working only to then break
ranging from Volvo (cars, a truck, and jet engine, still in active service at the time down. Frequently it was a competition
a gas turbine powered bus) to Cadillac with the RAF and USAF in the Harrier. between the active suspension system
via Kia before they found Hyundai. The The performance was legendary. The and the utterly analogue Jaguar engine,
system was utterly mind bending – roll vehicles were legendary (check out the with the transmission coming out in
during cornering? Why yes, but does one 1986 CERV III with a bi-turbo LT5 V8 sympathy from time to time.
want to roll into the corner, out of the engine, active steering, active suspension, One day Jeremy was in the turret
corner or remain flat? Ride? A step change active torque split 4WD) – and so was the
command position (hatch) out on the
from anything Citroen had created. Ladies noise from the oil pump that just wanted
Hethel test track, which was literally half
and gentlemen, the magic carpet ride had everyone for some distance around to
a World War 2 air base. The tank had
arrived! know it was working quite hard. A bit
decided to break down yet again, having
The promise was great – to allow infinitely British.
done so several times that day – at which
variable suspension characteristics and One engineer spent some time point Jeremy leapt from the turret and
very positive benefit by using hydraulic developing a 7.5 tonne light tank with was seen to be bashing his head on the
actuators which placed the wheel relative active suspension – the target being to tarmac. Only Jeremy had not noticed
some VIPs being shown around, or that
they had arrived just as he decided to
melt down. The Lotus PR ‘smoothies’ had
some fun explaining in English, which was
then translated into another language,
what this procedure was for.
HERE IT COMES…
What happened to the Lotus system since
it first shocked the world 40 years ago?
Well, they sold off key rights to one of
their technology partners, and the vehicle
manufacturers sat around looking at each
other. Not one of the manufacturers was
brave enough to commit to developing the
prototype system into a production reality.
Over the same period there have been
many claims by select vehicle manu-
facturers that they had ‘active’ suspension,
but this is emphatically wrong – all were
Picture 1: A device that has been around for a few years – here an epicyclic stack is driven by an adaptive reactive systems. Until now.
electric motor to alter the position of each half of the anti-roll bar, thus increasing the spring rate. With messages coming in the past few
Versions of this concept also allow each half to be decoupled for off-roading, where anti roll bars months about new models yet to arrive
get in the way of axle articulation. from Mercedes-Benz (W223 S-Class),
20 BODYSHOP NEWS AUSTRALIAindifference means that we just might be
seeing a ‘golden age’ play out, and the
very best and most advanced cars of this
era will eventually be cherished as much
as a 50-year-old classic today.
The automotive business produces
circa 80 million vehicles a year. Without a
massive over-reaction from governments
around the world in the face of a pandemic,
it is a major economic activity and
provides the route to yet more economic
activity. Just deleting this sector is not an
option by 2025 or any other made-up date,
whereas allowing it to change – as it has
always done – will deliver results more
acceptable to those who protest about
‘cars killing the planet’.
Picture 2: Working in concert with variable rate air suspension, these red actuators can raise or
lower the ride height. This allows the vehicle platform to remain free from side-to-side or front-
to-rear pitch.
BMW (keeping their hand in via the IS THIS THE END?
next generation Rolls-Royce Ghost) and We have looked at just one aspect of
Volkswagen Group (via Audi), we finally automotive technology – body roll and
see an adaptive reactive system that pitch control. This revolution is going on
comes achingly close to the Lotus active like an enormous fireworks show.
suspension concept. What changed?
However, there are much more
Two important aspects. Mercedes-Benz expensive technologies which rely on
led some time ago with the first active road taxpayer subsidies for their viability, such
surveillance system, while Volvo Truck as pure electric vehicles and even plug-
led with GPS linked predictive gearbox in electric hybrid vehicles. The public
changes. The advent of mass market ADAS have been bombarded with ‘important
combined with improvement/expansion of messages’ about how tail-pipe emissions
the first two technologies allows the entire from specific cars are responsible for
vehicle to be interconnected – dynamically most of the ills in modern society. In the
(picture 1). main these messages have come from
While adaptive roll stiffness takes care of those who like to spend other people’s
limiting body roll and use of air suspension cash and not take responsibility for their
can – as Mercedes-Benz showed more actions.
than five years ago – reduce roll to zero, the The automotive industry, notorious
tricky problem of controlling side-to-side for not working together, had been out-
as well as front-to-rear pitch remained. manoeuvred on emissions. Lobbyists Here we can see the new W223 when
Enter an additional actuator (picture 2). managed to change the strategic direction someone dares to attempt a side impact. The
The tools have been in development by giving ambitious but inept governments W223 ADAS detects the event, tracks the
for years, and some of them have been ‘solutions’ to a problem which remains event and close to point of inevitable impact,
in production for nearly a decade. What poorly defined and laid firmly at the door raises the ride height by up to 80mm.
transforms a group of discreet systems of the vehicle manufacturer. The result is
into one living beast is access to the the vehicle manufacturers have thrown Where does that leave the collision
ever-decreasing cost of computer power, everything they have and more into repair business? On the front row, poised
inexpensive sensors and vastly improved reducing tail-pipe emissions and to hell to exploit the capabilities your shops
performance on all counts. Fear not – with economics. It is entertaining to have must carry to support these magnificent
the entry point for this will be expensive a vehicle with a carbon footprint the size machines of the next generation past
vehicles, but it will find its way down- of a small country, but apparently does their first decade of existence. Vehicle
market in less than half a decade. The first not emit anything from the exhaust pipe manufacturers have less money than ever
applications are merely pilot runs for what because it doesn’t have one. Plug-in, before to ensure consumers only come to
is to come. anyone? their agents for repairs, which opens up
Fusion of these technologies allows The result is an industry running so hard yet more opportunity.
a vehicle manufacturer to sense a side to stand still it is producing truly amazing Rarely has the sector been more exciting,
impact, for example, raise the vehicle engineering that is effectively eclipsed by
and you are all part of it.
ride height by up to 80mm, and allow the the higher profile issue. The public seem
impact energy to enter via the sill instead to have lost their appetite for falling in love
Andrew Marsh is the co-owner and founder of
of the door anti-intrusion beams. Who did with machines that have beauty which
vehicle repair methods provider Ezi-Methods. For
that? Mercedes-Benz, as you will see on is more than skin deep. Debasing truly
more information, go to ezimethods.com.
the W223. amazing advances through confusion and
BODYSHOP NEWS AUSTRALIA 21FROM THE USA
WITH STACEY PHILLIPS
data security and new
technologies expected to
impact collision repair
W
ith the automotive industry • Never misappropriate the users’ data
currently going through a massive or knowingly allow any third parties to
transformation, data security covertly, dishonestly, or unfairly access or
and new technologies are expected to take data generated by the end user for
significantly impact the collision repair their own use.
sector. • Give end users the choice to determine
About a year ago, those who attended CIC what data is or isn’t shared and the
meetings in Palm Springs, California and opportunity to opt out of data collection
Indianapolis, Indiana, were asked about outside of the primary purpose.
their concerns regarding data security and • Provide end users with a clearly
personally identifiable information being published, straightforward process to
shared outside of their businesses. These inquire about data that has been acquired
concerns were addressed at the CIC’s from their business and the immediate
Vehicle Data Access, Private and Security chain of custody that the data has been
Committee virtual meeting in July 2020.
accountable.
“The security and legal protection of
“You may have access to data and have
repair facility and customer data, especially Aaron Schulenburg. been given permission to use it for a
personally identifiable information, is
business purpose but is there anyone else
paramount,” said Dan Risley, VP of Quality Specialists, confirmed that data sharing is
who has access to that data?” said Tinsley.
Repair and Market Development for CCC problematic for the industry. “There isn’t a
“It’s important to understand what the
Information Services and co-chair of the day that goes by that we don’t hear about
committee. “In addition, there is a moral a member or non-member in the industry
obligation that comes with protecting who is experiencing this type of issue,”
repair facility information.” he said. “It’s not just concerning for
Risley said education helps the industry collision repairers or the consumers we
gain a better understanding of the serve; it should be concerning for every
elements that are within its control and single company that is doing electronic
what can be done at shop level to protect commerce.”
customer data that is shared electronically. As a result, committee members
Aaron Schulenburg, Executive Director presented the “Golden Rules of Data for
of the Society of Collision Repair the Collision Industry”, a proposed set of
guidelines and best practices for repairers
to consider adopting. Trent Tinsley, Director Trent Tinsley.
of Business Development at Entegral and
co-chair of the committee, said the hope chain of custody is and what else is being
is that companies will ultimately endorse done with the data beyond the intended
the guidelines and then advocate their use point of business.”
in their businesses. PREPARING FOR FUTURE DISRUPTIONS
The guidelines include: Another highlight during the CIC virtual
• Only use end users’ data for the meeting was an update from the Future
service(s) they intended for it to be used; Disruptions Committee. Formed last year,
never collect or use their data against the committee’s mission is to identify,
them, or for business purposes other than share and drive discussions regarding
those expressly intended and permitted. future trends and technologies that are
• Always provide the end user clarity, expected to disrupt all industry segments
transparency, and continuing education within the next five to 10 years.
on the data you collect and the business “Our industry is going through a dramatic
Dan Risley. purpose for which it is being used. digital transformation and there are a lot
22 BODYSHOP NEWS AUSTRALIA“It’s important to understand what the chain of
custody is and what else is being done with the
data beyond the intended point of business.”
technology is now available in vehicles of customers. The capabilities included
and predicted to continue growing in telematics and predictive services,
usage over the next decade. According customer engagement, car productivity,
to a video shown during the presentation, advanced driver assistance systems, and
the use of this technology will enable advanced navigation.
Frank Terlep. insurance companies to obtain information The Internet of Things (IoT): Terlep said
automatically. Rather than asking that IoT and Big Data are already being
of disruptions occurring before our eyes,” questions about the damage, vehicle implemented in the collision repair industry
said Frank Terlep, co-chair of the committee sensors will tell the story. As a result, and their usage is forecast to increase. As
and co-founder of Auto Techcelerators. “By this will lead to a faster, more transparent an example, GM currently has about 10
identifying and sharing the information, process for customers. million connected vehicles, regardless of
the committee hopes to help all segments Connected car: Industry experts whether or not customers choose to pay
prepare for and find common ground say we’re likely to see an increase in for the OnStar telematics system.
to deliver solutions that ensure the connected and autonomous vehicles, as Artificial intelligence (AI): The use of AI,
consumers’ experience and safety meets well as smart mobility services like Uber, according to Terlep, is often a controversial
or exceeds their expectations.” playing an important role in the future. topic. However, he said whether we like it
Committee co-chair Jake Rodenroth, Terlep and Rodenroth shared a video or not, it’s going to be incorporated in some
Director of OEM and Industry Technical featuring Microsoft’s connected vehicle aspect of collision repair. He predicted that
Relations for asTech, agreed and advised platform, which demonstrated how total loss and estimating are likely to be the
businesses to be open to the changes vehicles can integrate with the digital life first areas where AI is used.
ahead. “As a technician, you should Augmented reality: In a video shown
be focused on the things that aren’t during the presentation, Bosch’s
necessarily in your comfort zone,” said augmented reality capabilities were
Rodenroth. “You can’t be afraid to change highlighted. These include the ability to
things and look at other business models.” identify fault sources and allow repairs to
Otherwise, he said businesses will be performed more quickly and efficiently.
continue to operate the way they always Many people predict that augmented
have and be unprepared for the future. reality glasses will be the central user
The co-chairs shared information interface in the near future.
and videos about new technological Both committees will continue their work
developments on the horizon. in these areas and report on their findings
Claims disruption: Terlep said during the next CIC event, scheduled for
touchless/remote claims estimating is 3 November. For more information about
really accelerating due to COVID-19. The Jake Rodenroth. the CIC, visit www.ciclink.com.
Collision Repair
3D Measurement Technology
The Matrix Wand.
Delivering efficient estimating, blueprinting, documentation and
repair verification to the body shop.
1300 178 616 sales@thematrixwand.com.au
CMC INTERNATIONAL GROUP PTY LTD sales@cmcig.com.auBODYSHOP NEWS
CEO SERIES
RON OLSSON
PRESIDENT OF PRO SPOT INTERNATIONAL
More than 35 years ago, Ron Olsson relocated from Sweden to the United States, chasing his
dream to live and work in America and California. That dream came to fruition when Olsson had
the opportunity to join the motorcycle circuit (speedway) throughout Southern California with a
friend. Olsson designed and built motorcycle frame straightening and laser measuring systems
in the mid-1980s.
With a background in electrical engineering, he had an interest in developing innovative equipment
and became involved in the automotive industry. Eventually, the entrepreneur founded Pro Spot
International. Based in Carlsbad, California, the company manufactures resistance spot welding
equipment and other welding products for the collision repair industry.
BodyShop News US Correspondent Stacey Phillips caught up with Olsson to learn about Pro
Spot’s history and its plans for the future.
BODYSHOP NEWS: Can you share the time, I invented a wheel straightener for In addition, a lot of OEMs were using old
history of Pro Spot International and the the industry. One day while I was driving repair procedures and didn’t recommend
development of your first spot welder? home, I thought that there were a lot more using spot welders. As a result, I spent
RON OLSSON: When I came to the cars on the road than motorcycles and a lot of time educating the industry.
United States in the early 1980s, I worked that maybe I should shift my focus. I travelled throughout the industry to
briefly for a Swedish company called I developed my first spot welder shortly demonstrate the benefits and value of the
Nicator/Dataliner in Novato, California, after. There was nothing else like it on welder. Then, I would go home and try to
which cooperated with KLM/Mitchell the market. As a pioneer, I felt like I was sell the welders to make a living. My wife
in San Diego. The company produced the only one pushing spot welding for Wendy and I were the only two employees
alignment and measuring books for the collision industry. I quickly found out and built the welders in a small shop in
the collision industry. That’s what why: the average body shop just didn’t Escondido, California. My wife is very wise
brought me to Southern California and I have enough electrical infrastructure in and realised we needed help. We hired
eventually opened my own company in their shops to handle spot welders that our first employee, Alex, who still works
1986 called C.L.A.S.S. – California Laser demanded a more rigid supply of input for us today almost 30 years later.
Alignment and Straightening Systems. voltage. My first spot welder, the PR-10, Over time, the industry became more
I specialised in producing motorcycle was designed with that in mind. It worked aware of the benefits of a spot welder. It’s
frame straightening and laser measuring perfectly on average power and body a completely different type of application
systems for the bike repair industry and shops were happy and started purchasing than a MIG welder and offers a better
had a small manufacturing facility. At the it. quality repair. I always wondered why the
24 BODYSHOP NEWS AUSTRALIAYou can also read
