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Vol. 22 No. 4 2023
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Vol. 22 No. 4 2023
Electromobile auto parts Review of electric pumps Transition to lower emission refrigerants aftermarketinternational.com
SCAN AND SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE Aftermarket International Vol. 22 No 4 2023 I 1
AFTERMARKET
OUT FRONT
I N T E R N AT I O N A L
Summing up Aftermarket International for 2023 and comments on AAPEX
It is a periodical publication owned by Latin Press, Inc. Produced and distributed for Latin Press, Inc. by Latin Press Colombia and Latin Press USA
GENERAL MANAGEMENT Max Jaramillo / Manuela Jaramillo
T
his if our fourth and final issue of 2023, and it’s a milestone for us. It completes our first year of ownership by Latin Press, Inc. I sold the brand to them in 2022 after owning the brand since 2007, and am happy report we have accomplished a lot together in our first full year together. Included in these achievements are:
EDITOR IN-CHIEF Duván Chaverra dchaverra@aftermarketinternational.com EDITOR Federico Duarte fduarte@aftermarketinternational.com PROJECT MANAGER Andrés Caballero acaballero@aftermarketinternational.com
Expanding our frequency of publication to quarterly, both in English and Spanish. This has allowed up to surpass prepandemic advertising revenues. Major support continues to come from companies like Arnott Air Suspension, Automann, Melling and Tracer Products. Thanks all.
PUBLISHER Brad Glazer bglazer@aftermar ketinternational.com
We now have a weekly enewsletter, reaching our entire circulation of about 20,000. This allows us to update our audience on a regular basis of news they may not be receiving anyplace else.
ACCOUNT MANAGERS MÉXICO Sandra Camacho scamacho@aftermarketinternational.com
We exhibited at AAPEX for the first time this year.
COLOMBIA Fabio Giraldo fgiraldo@aftermarketinternational.com
Last but not least, we started our own tradeshow. It’s called AutoAmericas and is held in Miami, FL, USA. It’s target audience our buyers from Latin America and the South Florida markets. In 2024 AutoAmericas www.autoamericas.show/en will be held Thursday-Friday, March 7-8 at the Miami Airport Convention Center (MACC). We “kicked off ’ the 2024 show with a great party, Alegria, on Wednesday night of AAPEX. Thank you to Walker Products for being the sponsor of it, and bringing along many of their customers to attend.
DATABASE MANAGER Maria Eugenia Rave mrave@aftermarketinternational.com PRODUCTION MANAGER Fabio Franco ffranco@aftermarketinternational.com LAYOUT AND DESIGN Jhonnatan Martínez jmartinez@aftermarketinternational.com
I was happy to again attend AAPEX. Hard to believe the show is now in it’s fourth decade, after starting in 1992. Even harder to believe I have been at almost every one. (As my dear, departed mother would say “oy vey”).
FRONT PAGE Canva - sefa ozel
The industry is changing and AAPEX is changing with it. It has really captured the need to get to the grassroots level, by starting it’s “Joe’s Garage” section, to attract the repair shop owners. A great move.
OFFICE PHONES: Latin Press USA Miami, USATel +1 [305] 285 3133
One last item regarding MEMA. It used to have many different segments and quite honestly could be confusing to work with. I speak from experience. But kudos to the organization. They basically have split into two major sections, one for the OE market and the other for the aftermarket. Kudos to CEO Bill Long and his Boards of Directors in initiating this change.
Latin Press Mexico Ciudad de México Tel +52 [55] 4170 8330
Okay…onwards and upwards to next year!
Brad Glazer, publisher Aftermarket International
Latin Press Colombia Bogotá, Colombia Tel +57 [601] 381 9215 São Paulo, Brazil Tel +55 [11] 3042 2103 The opinions expressed by the authors of the articles in this journal do not commit the publishing house.
Printed by Panamericana Formas e Impresos S.A. Acting only as printer Printed in Colombia ISSN 2834-8885
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Aftermarket International Vol. 22 No 4 2023 I 3
Comments from the Editor
The electric transition of the industry The new modern times, which we could consider from the Earth Summit held in 1992 in Rio de Janeiro, where the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was signed, has brought a long-term desire to reduce the carbon footprint through the adoption of new technologies. In the case of electromobility, it is to resume a race lost since the 19th century when the combustion engine took an increasingly advanced lead that relegated the electric one, paraphrasing García Márquez in his Nobel acceptance speech, to a simple scientific possibility. However, in recent decades this has emerged as a necessity to handle the real possibility of a cataclysm like that of the biblical hurricane with which he closes his most universal novel. Recent climate summits have shaped that path in this industrial age. The 2015 UNFCCC, in which the Paris Agreement was signed, launched the “Paris Declaration and Call to Action on Electric Mobility and Climate Change.” Thus, in 2017 more than three million electric vehicles were circulating, especially in the United States and regions such as Europe and Asia, while Latin America and the Caribbean stood out for being one of the regions with the least incorporation of this technology. This despite having one of the cleanest electricity generation sectors in the world according to the International Energy Agency. The 2021 Glasgow Climate Pact, signed by nearly 200 countries, became the first climate agreement to explicitly propose the reduction of the use of coal, the fossil fuel that generates the most greenhouse gases. In this, the declaration for the promotion of electric vehicles was signed, with the aspirational goal that all new cars sold in the world from 2040 be zero emissions. Mexico is one of the Latin American countries to have signed such a declaration, and in line with this, it has established the National Electric Mobility Strategy. This means that although the National Auto Parts Industry expects auto parts production to exceed $117.5 billion by the end of 2023, after an increase of 18.1% during the first eight months of the year, during the first semester this production It was notably led by electrical parts with a value of US$ 13,669 million. In the manufacture of electric vehicles there are components such as lithium-ion batteries, the electric motor, inverter, charger, thermal management system, regenerative braking, among many others. This issue is just a preamble to an increasingly consistent topic in the industry, addressed in both Latin American and American fairs, including AAPEX, which demonstrate a common priority, even at different scales and diverse incidence.
Federico Duarte Editor
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IN THIS ISSUE/ VOL. 22 No. 4 November 2023
Feat ure s 6/Auto parts challenges of the electrical transition in Latin America
6
10/Technologies that lead the way towards electromobility
14/Mercedes Benz A-Class W-168 (II part) 18/The transition to more sustainable automotive refrigerants
18
ONLINE DIGITAL EDITION Find information, contacts, links to industry associations, free literature from businesses that advertise in the publication, events, and downloadable issue archives dating to 2007 at aftermarketinternational.com
Depart m e n t s 3/Out Front
For advertising, contact Brad Glazer at 216 233-6943 bglazer@aftermarketinternational.com
22/Industry News 26/Business News
Andrés Caballero +1 [305] 285 3133 Ext. 94 acaballero@aftermarketinternational.com
28/Trade Shows
ADVERTISER'S INDEX Advertiser
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Arnott Air Suspension Products
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Arnott Air Suspension Products
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Automann USA, Inc.
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Aftermarket International Vol. 22 No 4 2023 I 5
Auto parts challenges of the electrical transition in Latin America By Aftermarket International
E
lectric mobility is already rolling out in the region. What is the future of auto parts in this transition?
Recent research by Hedges & Company estimates that approximately 1.47 billion vehicles roll around the world. Based on a population estimate of 8.1 billion people on the planet, it can be estimated that there is one car for almost every six individuals (5.76 to be more precise). This figure even exceeds the population of China (1,428 million), which in turn concentrates the largest vehicle fleet: 415 million vehicles. This amount, in turn, is higher than the 413 million cars in the European market, and much more than the 279 million that travel through the United States. Thus, China contributes 76% of the 543 million
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vehicles in Asia, the region with the largest vehicle fleet. It is followed by Europe and North America (358 million). And in fourth position, at a considerable distance, is South America, with 84 million cars. However, in Latin America there is an increasingly marked trend towards the electrical transition. Mexico leads it with the sale of 6,000 electric vehicles in 2022 and projecting 18,900 by 2026, as stated by the National Auto Parts Industry (INA). According to the Mexican Association of the Automotive Industry (AMIA), the vehicle aftermarketinternationalcom
fleet comprises more than 40 million units in this country. It is expected that, as a result of the widespread use of electrified vehicles, 2,400 million liters of gasoline will no longer be consumed and thereby avoid the emission of 26 million gases into the atmosphere. The AMLA estimates that electrified sales will have a penetration of around 7.0% by the end of this year, and estimates that in the coming years it will exceed 19% until reaching 38.9% in 2030. According to the INA, which recently organized Latam Mobility: Mexico 2023, in which 1,000 attendees gathered along with more than 100 panelists on this topic, national sales of hybrid and electric cars increased by 30% so far 2023 and current sales are expected to triple. aftermarketinternational.com
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semi-public charging stations and a total of 3,206 connectors (2.4 per station), the differences with other areas of the world are overwhelming. A few days ago, the European Electromobility Association (Avere) celebrated that the Old Continent has surpassed 600,000 charging points for electric vehicles in its territory. This milestone occurs "just a few months", in the words of the same association, after having exceeded 500,000 charging points. At the end of September, the Association of the Automotive Sector and its Parts (Asopartes) held the forum “Challenges of sustainable mobility for the after-sales segment”, an event that has become a reference for the automotive industry in Colombia. In one of the presentations about the future of spare parts in the motor sector in electric mobility, it was discussed how advanced the region is in this transition and the adoption of new technologies. At the other pole of the continent and the graph regarding the projection of sales of electric vehicles in Latin America (Graph 1), is Argentina, which maintains an important connection with Mexico. This is demonstrated by the recent visit of a delegation of businessmen from various metallurgical sectors from the Southern Cone nation to the Central American country with a focus on the auto parts sector. On the other side of the continent and the graph about the projection of sales of electric vehicles in Latin America (Graph 1), is Argentina, which maintains an important connection with Mexico. This is demonstrated by the recent visit of a delegation of businessmen from various metallurgical sectors from the Southern Cone nation to the Central American country with a focus on the auto parts sector.
Challenges on the auto parts horizon “Electromobility is already a reality in our region, with an increasing presence on the roads of Latin America and the Caribbean,” says the BMW Group, which reaffirms itself as a pioneer in electrification. In addition, it claims to currently have the most complete range of electric vehicles on the market.
In the words of Johana Escobar, manager of the Reversible Logistics program for the Andean region of Clarios, known for the MAC battery brand, definitely after the pandemic there has been an evolution in the electrical issue. For Escobar, talking about electrification means talking about selfdriving, and digitalization “and we have to prepare for there.” However, in his opinion in Colombia this process will take around ten years or more. “We are talking that by 2030 we will be more or less at 4% in what has to do with electric vehicles, and already towards the 2040-2050 level we can be talking about much higher volumes, specifically talking about Latin America,” she noted.
In this sense, the company highlights that after a century-long history with internal combustion engines, it is time to cross the threshold of electromobility, which raises a series of doubts: is the vehicle's autonomy sufficient? How far can I go with the charge stored in the battery? In a statement addressed to the Mexican market, the company claims to offer range alternatives that adjust to the specific needs of each client. “The data analysis of the daily trips of our customers in the region gives an average daily trip of 15 kilometers, a distance that will allow the vast majority to use a BMW Group electric vehicle, charging mainly at home or work,” says the multinational. However, although Mexico is the country with the largest charging network in Latin America, with approximately 1,336 public or
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“If we look at countries like Chile, where they are already totally convinced of electrification, in any case there is still an important path to go in everything that has to do with the country's infrastructure,” she indicated.
Training to advance “I believe that the main thing is after-sales for it to move forward,” stated Héctor Jaime Alvarado, head of diagnostic and electromobility products at Innovateq – Emasa Group, who highlighted that today many people are afraid to buy a electric vehicle when wondering what they are going to do after their vehicle comes out of warranty, after five or eight years. What to do? Where to go? Alvarado raised this by bringing up the same concern of the auto parts sector: what are we going to sell? This is when contrasting the 40 to 60 parts of an electric motor compared to the 2000 of a combustion engine: “It no longer has filters, injection systems… everything that we sell.” Therefore, in his opinion, the most important thing to advance in after-sales is training.
aftermarketinternational.com
“For us to sell aftermarket spare parts for hybrid and electric vehicles, we must have training and training,” he stressed, explaining that the main shortcoming identified in the country's workshops is lack of knowledge in electricity, electronics and software. “We have seen how they make repairs to very expensive mechanical systems because they could not exercise a simple sensor,” says Héctor Jaime, who warns that until now what has happened with this lack of knowledge is poor customer service due to unnecessary repairs and expenses, but that in a few years when these vehicles begin to arrive at the aftermarket, the technician can not only make a mistake and damage the car, but also be burned by the 800 volts of one of these units. “That is the basis of the unexplored world of electromobility,” he concluded.
Aftermarket International Vol. 22 No 4 2023 I 9
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Technologies that lead the way towards electromobility By Aftermarket International
T
he transition to electric vehicles opens up a broad portfolio of solutions that make their way into a market supported by systems such as stop-start.
The world of mobility is in a moment of transition: from combustion vehicles to electrified ones. To do this, the automotive industry works with hybrid vehicles, of which there are different types. Many more of that first battery-powered automobile in the 1930s, whose invention was attributed to Scottish businessman and chemist Robert Anderson. However, today there are as many shadows as lights facing this path. In a recent General Motors (GM) quarterly earnings conference call, company CEO Mary Barra said: “As we move forward in the transition to electric vehicles, there are a bit of hurdles.” At this conference, a concern expressed by executives of the most relevant automotive companies in the world was echoed: consumers are not addressing the transition
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to electric mobility as quickly as expected. Hence, in the words of Barra, “immediate steps are being taken to improve the profitability of our EVS portfolio and adjust it to the slowdown in growth in the short term.” GM executive vice president and chief financial officer, Paul Jacobson, indicated that one of those measures has been to abandon the production goal of 100,000 zero-emission vehicles in the second half of this year, as well as add 400,000 units manufactured between 2022 and the first half from 2024. On the other hand, the Honda company, which a few weeks ago presented its first zero-emission vehicle for the US market, the Prologue, manufactured by General Motors in the Mexican city of Ramos Arizpe on the same platform as its Blazer EV, also recognized a moderate step to electric vehicles. aftermarketinternationalcom
Hence, the company decided together with GM to cancel a project for the development of an electric car that would be offered in the US market for less than $30,000. However, both reaffirmed that other collaborative projects such as the development of hydrogen cells and autonomous vehicles were still on. Meanwhile, companies like Toyota have opted not to develop 100% electric products, but to electrify their catalog with hybrid investments of existing models. Hence its investment of almost US$8 billion to increase the capacity of the battery plant it is currently building in North Carolina. Meanwhile, the BMW Group's electrification strategy continues with the launch of the BMW i5 eDrive40 for Latin American import markets. In Colombia, it has been with the BMW i5, fully electric, equipped with the greatly improved fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, whose electric motor drives the rear wheels and generates a maximum power of 250 KW/340 hp and a maximum torque of up to 430 Nm, while the space-saving high-voltage battery is located in the lower part of the body and provides a usable energy content of 81.2 kWh. aftermarketinternational.com
From this overview, where is the automotive spare parts market for electric vehicles going?
New tendencies Ahead of the latest automotive aftermarket products exhibition (AAPEX), held between October 31 and November 2, the company Stryten Energy presented two trends that the company assures will be at the center of retailers and distributors of the automotive spare parts market. One of them is that the number of vehicles with start-stop technology will continue to increase. According to the company, while much of the focus has been on electric vehicles and the lithium batteries that power them, lead batteries (in all gasoline-powered vehicles and almost all electric and hybrid vehicles) remain playing a vital role in the path towards sustainability within the automotive industry. “Automakers have improved emissions and fuel economy over the past five years with the use of a wide range of new technologies, including start-stop functionality,” says Stryten Energy. Aftermarket International Vol. 22 No 4 2023 I 11
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), half of new vehicles produced in 2021 included start-stop technology. Today, it is estimated that nearly 30% of new vehicles sold in the US with start-stop technology now come equipped with EFB, and this trend is expected to increase year over year. According to Stryten Energy, the increase in start-stop capabilities is a perfect example of the importance of the lead-acid battery. Cyclic lead acid batteries allow the vehicle's engine to shut off when the driver is stopped, while continuing to operate all of the vehicle's accessories, and restart seamlessly when the driver lifts their foot off the brake. The Battery Innovation Consortium found that start-stop technology can eliminate nearly 6.7 million tons of emissions each year in the U.S. alone, and that number is growing as the market share of batteries increases. start-stop enabled vehicles. With the stop-start technology market expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% to reach $58.8 billion by 2027, demand for cyclic lead batteries will also remain strong throughout the decade.
“As consumers consider greener automotive solutions, it's important that we don't forget the impact lead batteries can have on sustainability," said Dan Autey, executive vice president of Stryten Energy. Start-stop technology powered by cyclic lead batteries not only reduces emissions, but also reduces fuel waste from idling engines. Lead-acid batteries are the most recycled consumer product in the US, with a nearly 100% recycling rate keeping 160 million batteries out of US landfills each year.
Improved flooded batteries On the other hand, according to Stryten Energy, the growth of the enhanced flooded battery (EFB) market will drive increasingly energyconsuming automotive functions. “Not all lead-acid batteries are designed and manufactured equally, an important consideration for automakers in an era when vehicles come with more details than ever,” the company says, noting that the start functionality -stop is just one example, and features like heated
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seats, navigation systems, rearview cameras, blind spot monitoring and more also put a strain on the battery. The conversation around start-stop technology often gravitates toward absorbed glass fiber (AGM) batteries, but enhanced flood batteries (EFB) can be just as, if not more, effective at meeting power needs. According to Stryten Energy estimates, partial load state operation is common in stop-start applications. During independent testing, the average total capacity of EFB was 50% greater than that of AGM for a battery of the same size. This finding indicates that EFB can not only produce as many cycles as AGM but also can maintain its total capacity at a higher level without decaying. “Replicating real-world start-stop usage, independent testing has shown that EFB offers charge acceptance capability equivalent to that of AGM batteries. EFB will also last 52% longer than an AGM battery in high temperature environments,” warns the company, recalling that nearly 30% of new vehicles built with start-stop functionality in the US are equipped with an EFB and, based on growth trends over the past decade, EFBs are more likely to meet growing demand than AGMs. “Drivers expect comfort and performance in their vehicles, but those features don't come without an electrical cost. “EFBs have been shown to resist cycling-related failures that are associated with these increased energy demands,” Autey said. "As EFBs become more prevalent, they will become the preferred choice in the market for today's vehicles with start/stop, advanced safety features and other electrical needs," he reaffirmed.
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Mercedes Benz A-Class W-168 (II part) By Carlos Panzieri*
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n this second part about the electric power steering (EPS) pumps of the A-Class model of the first generation Mercedes Benz (the W-168) we will go into more detail about the rotor and gears, replacing the electronic board and how to close it.
Image 15 R
Image 16
D. Rotor-pump remanufacturing (picture 15 R) 1. Dispose the components of the Emmetec 38X630 kit on a clear and clean surface.
3. Using a ci-clip pliers with the curved beak, and a flat and thin screwdriver, remove: a. The upper plate (picture 16 green arrow) or cover; b. The rotor and the vanes (image 16 red arrow and 17); c. The bottom pressure plate;
2. Unscrew the 4 torx bolts of picture 15 (green arrows).
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Image 17
Image 19
Image 20
Image 18
d. The spring and the diaphragm; e. The outer o-ring on the body; 4. Replace all the seals with the ones provided by the kit, and re-assembly in the opposite verse of the disassembly one. E. Gear-pump remanufacturing (picture 15 I) 1. Dispose the components of the Emmetec 38X629 kit on a clear aftermarketinternational.com
Image 21
and clean surface. 2. Dismount the pump (image 18) and slip-off its components on both sides (pictures 19, 20 and 21); 3. Check the wear conditions of the components, especially the ones in light alloy; 4. Un-screw, check and re-assembly the limiting valve; Aftermarket International Vol. 22 No 4 2023 I 15
Imagen 22
Imagen 24
2. Clean the area under the original electronic board previously removed (picture 22). 3. Place the new board marking the position of the holes (picture 23). 4. Remove the electronic board, drill where marked with a drill 2,3mm and with thin sand paper, remove any rim. 5. Remove the protective film on the both sides of the insulating (picture 24). 6. As indicated in picture 25 and 26, place the insulating paper. Imagen 23
7. Place the electronic board and the lock, fix with the provided screws adding threadlock (picture 27). 5. Re-assembly all the components in the opposite verse of the disassembly one. F. Electronic board substitution 1. Dispose the components of the Emmetec V-04027 kit on a clear and clean surface.
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8. Fasten the connection group and weld all the four contact clips on their appropriate place on the device. 9. Ensure clips are not in contact with the fixing plate: in case there is a contact, separate them levering with a screwdriver as shown in the figure. aftermarketinternationalcom
Imagen 25
Imagen 26
Imagen 27
10. Reconnect the motor cables with condensers housing as originally, and weld the consent cable with the cable prearranged on the device, insulating the welding with a heat-shriking material.
G. Closing Replace the joint, the pump, the tank and all its components in the opposite verse they have been removed.
a. WARNING: do not weld directly the consent cable on the device, while weld on the already welded cable.
Seal the cover to the basement with the EMMETEC mastic Z-07003.
11. In order to complete the installation, supply the system with a tension between 13,7 and 14,0V, and verify with a multimeter that at the top of the motor there is a tension between 9,8 and 10V under “rest” conditions, that is to say in case of low speed; if not, tune voltage using the trimmer on the device. a. NOTE: with the last version of the electronic boards V-040227D, this operation is needed anymore. aftermarketinternational.com
For additional information regarding the remanufacturing of electric power steering pumps, electric power steering and racks, visit the www.emmetec.com and www.orpav.com sites, or the website of www.jadausa.com, his distributor for North, Centre and South America asking for introductory courses. *Emmetec & Orpav technical consultant panziericarlos@gmail.com
Aftermarket International Vol. 22 No 4 2023 I 17
The transition to more sustainable refrigerants for automotive air conditioning By Aftermarket International
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long with the move to electromobility, refrigerants for air conditioning systems promote a change in the automotive industry. The standards set by regulations from European and American agencies such as the SEA or EPA have led automotive manufacturers to adopt low-emission refrigerants. The European F-GAS regulation, for example, which came into force on January 1, 2015, proposes the progressive reduction of emissions by controlling the use of fluorinated greenhouse gases, replacing them with other types of gases with a lower Warming Potential (GWP) before 2030. One of those greenhouse gases is 134A, a standard refrigerant in many vehicle air conditioning units that permeates almost 100% of Latin American industry. This is according to Inaise Balestero, Chemours Regional Account Manager for the Automotive sector in Latin America. According to Balestero, this chemical compound has a global warming potential 1,300 times greater than CO2, which is the substance used as a measurement parameter.
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On January 1, 2019, the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol entered into force, which contemplates that over the next 30 years the projected production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), organic compounds used as alternative refrigerants to substances that deplete the ozone layer, regulated by this protocol. aftermarketinternationalcom
Thus, based on the international schedule established to reduce greenhouse gases, the chemical industry began to work on a molecule with a lower global warming potential that could replace it and have similar energy efficiency. “The idea was that a practically identical molecule could be developed in terms of property so that an easier conversion could be done,” she says. In this way, after more than ten years of development, companies such as Chemours produced the refrigerant R-1234yf. This has a lower charge and a 99.7% lower global warming potential than the refrigerant that precedes it, R-134a. Such refrigerant is slightly flammable and requires the use of R-1234yf-specific automotive air conditioning tools. Among them, oil for compressors, injection adapters for leak detection and air conditioning recovery machines. “The industry looked for a solution that could be long-term, easy to convert, and due to the schedule in the most developed countries, the change has already begun,” she indicates. According to Balestero, nine out of ten cars in the United States already use R-1234yf, but in Latin America there is a longer timetable for its adoption.
Latin America plans The international schedule of the Kigali Amendment has set a freeze on greenhouse gas imports starting January 1, 2024, and the first reduction is scheduled for 2029. As medium-term substitutes, R-410A, R-407A or R-407F, R-442A and R-134A have been incorporated. However, its level of 2000 points does not allow it to be the definitive alternative. Starting in 2025, fluorinated gases with GWP equal to or greater than 750 will be prohibited. While the GWP of R-134A is 1430, that of R-1234yf is 4. aftermarketinternational.com
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Hence, the demand for this last product is increasingly growing in the world, although to a lesser extent in Latin America. However, according to Inaise Balestero, who assures that the Chemours plant in the city of Corpus Christi, Texas, has the largest production capacity, and like other manufacturers, it has invested to expand it, countries such as Mexico, Brazil and Argentina import cars from the US and Europe that have adopted this technology, which is why the refrigerant already circulates in the region. “That is why it is important that the service sector is prepared, because although in smaller quantities there are already cars circulating with this product,” says Inaise. Among the items for technicians to consider is that R-1234yf is slightly flammable and the oils contain additional additives to create a moisture-resistant environment in mobile air conditioning systems. Therefore, the professionals in charge must be trained by a program approved by the EPA to manage the new refrigerant.
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Technical specifications “Refrigerant gases are like the blood of refrigeration equipment that circulates throughout the system, and there is an international standard that normalizes the composition standards of a refrigerant,” says Inaise, referring to the AHRI 700-2012 standard, the which meets the specifications that Fluorocarbon Refrigerants must meet. Inaise emphasizes the importance of considering these specifications, since there are many imported refrigerants that are not from safe suppliers. This can not only compromise the energy efficiency of a piece of equipment, but also cause very serious damage to the system such as burning of the compressors. Refrigerant gases are tested using equipment called a chromatograph, which indicates the general conditions of the gas before being packaged for sale. Among the most common characteristics verified in laboratories from the refrigerant certification program are humidity (ppm by weight), acidity (ppm by weight), high boiling residue, noncondensables and volatile impurities (percent by volume). “This gas must have a maximum of 10ppm of humidity because H2O can generate acid in the system, which can lead to oxidation of the pipes, and ultimately all that contaminated fluid can reach the compressor and generate a burn,” warns the Chemours professional. Precisely these were some of the most common concerns received during a recent fair in Brazil (FEBRAVA), as well as at AAPEX, where the company was present and recalled the value of a good quality and certified refrigerant that results in a friendly contribution to the environment.
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[SUPPLIER NEWS] AROUND THE AFTERMARKET INDUSTRY
Nissan auto parts are now available in Mercado Libre Mexico Mexico. As part of a business strategy, Nissan opened its auto parts offering through Mercado Libre Mexico. This collaboration seeks to offer a totally direct relationship with the customer. Through a statement, it was specified that Nissan's online sale is complemented by 11,000 items for interiors and exteriors, outside of different auto parts of all models in the brand's catalog. According to Nissan, this new buying opportunity will include products such as engine oils, tuning kit, carpets, wheels, caps, shock absorbers, mirrors, skulls, air filters, spark plugs and more items. To provide a greater benefit to the buyer, the acquisition of auto parts suitable for each vehicle of the brand is offered through an option to enter the car's data to check if it is compatible with the auto part in question.
"This alliance allows us to continue promoting the automotive category within our platform," said Amelie Mossberg, Head of Autoparts Marketplace at Mercado Libre. With the inclusion of the sale of auto parts in Mercado Libre Mexico, Nissan is looking for further growth in e-commerce. To date, it has registered a 68% increase in sales in the digital market.
Hunter Introduces Hawkeye XL Alignment System United States. Hunter introduced its new Hawkeye XL alignment system, which the company says is designed to provide maximum speed, durability and ease of use for a wide range of commercial vehicles. The new aligner will be on display for the first time at Hunter's booth at SEMA in Las Vegas, Oct. 31-Nov. 3. According to Hunter, the versatile aligner provides very accurate measurements in four minutes or less. "With our old system, I was doing 15 trucks in a 10-hour day," said Prime Inc. technician Vernon Embree, who tested the Hawkeye XL with its large fleet of newer trucks. "Now I've run over 26 trucks in one day. I would definitely recommend the XL to anyone." At the heart of the Hawkeye XL is a visionary new camera technology, Hunter said, with extra-long range and extralarge lenses, expanded from the industry-leading Hawkeye Elite alignment system. The aligner features lightweight three-dimensional XL lenses that are highly durable, low-maintenance, and nonelectronic. Accurate, high-definition cameras provide extralong-range view, capture measurements on a single rolling compensation, and display live alignment readings for up to three axes at once. The extended range delivers expanded results, allowing the XL to easily line up 53-foot trailers. With a moving camera beam and portable cabinet, technicians can perform alignments on the floor or in an elevator, in any bay. The XL offers optional fully integrated alignment with Hunter's L494HD alignment rack or FIA-compliant turntable
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kits to streamline processes. Standard self-centering adapters fit wheels from 15 to 28 inches. For even more speed and wheel protection, optional Quick Grips are available in heavy-duty and passenger versions. In addition, Hawkeye XL connects to the HunterNet 2 customer portal, allowing shop owners to monitor alignment performance remotely and in real-time. According to Hunter, the XL's efficiency, versatility and low maintenance combine to produce more uptime and a lower cost of ownership. Misaligned wheels can have a considerable impact on the cost of commercial vehicle fuel and tire wear. "Technicians love the simplicity and ease of use of the Hawkeye XL," said Alan Hagerty, product manager at Hunter. "It's perfect for heavy-duty shops looking to accelerate and expand their alignment capabilities," he said. aftermarketinternationalcom
Brembro Launches Aftermarket Pad
United States. Brembo, an automotive brake technology company, is unveiling a new aftermarket pad strategy with the world premiere of the latest in brake technology at both AAPEX and SEMA at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. "As the automotive industry continues to transition to powertrains of the future, one thing remains constant: vehicles will need to stop safely," said Roberto Caravati, Global Operations Director of Brembo's Aftermarket Business Unit. "Brembo will continue to provide solutions for enthusiasts, car manufacturers and racetracks, with the aim of offering the best driving experience, making vehicles safer for generations to come, and each product will be greener than the last. Our wide range of offerings will be showcased at AAPEX and SEMA so that businesses and individuals can see and feel the best in braking," he said. AAPEX marks the world debut of Brembo's line of fully copper-free XTRA brake pads with Low Met and Ceramic NAO formulations (XTRA and XTRA Ceramic), bridging the gap between the aftermarket and Brembo's performance lines and demonstrating Brembo's ability to provide customized solutions for those looking for the best friction material in an aftermarket pad along with less impact on the environment. The addition of these new pads to the existing XTRA range, which includes Brembo Max grooved discs and XTRA perforated discs, creates the ultimate performance combination designed specifically for high-performance vehicles. aftermarketinternational.com
Brembo is also introducing a new visual identity across its pickup line to help distinguish each family with different backing plates and wedge colors. This new, expanded, tailor-made aftermarket strategy has been made possible by Brembo's joint venture with Gold Phoenix, which enriches and strengthens Brembo's position in the aftermarket for state-of-the-art development and production facilities. In addition to the new brake pad materials, Brembo's booth at AAPEX showcases other product families, such as Beyond EV and Beyond Greenance, Brembo's state-ofthe-art solution kits that have already been recognized by several prestigious international innovation awards. The SEMA exhibition includes a wide range of Brembo brake components and system offerings in the sport, GT, racing, off-road and UTV segments. Brembo is also showcasing the braking system of the Bugatti Bolide, the track-exclusive hypercar built around Bugatti's iconic W16 engine. And, to celebrate Brembo's storied history as a supplier of brake systems and components to Formula 1, and the upcoming return of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, the AAPEX and SEMA booths include an exhibition of the modern F1 braking system. Brembo brake systems and components are found in a wide range of vehicles, from Formula 1 and other racing series to performance-focused vehicles as well as everyday drivers. Brembo's offering will continue to expand to serve both automakers and enthusiasts by turning energy into inspiration. Aftermarket International Vol. 22 No 4 2023 I 23
[BUSSINESS NEWS] AROUND THE INDUSTRY
summon the best mechanical workshop in Latin America
Latin America. Machine shop professionals from Latin America, the Caribbean and South Florida are invited to participate in the CALA Awards. These awards seek to recognize excellence in the industry, highlighting innovation, sustainability, effective marketing strategies and employee skill development. The winner will be announced within the framework of the Autoamericas fair, which will be held between March 7 and 8, 2024. According to the organizers of the CALA Awards, this recognition extends the invitation and call to those workshops that have implemented ecological practices, as well as those who have a marketing strategy that has taken their business to new projections "and, therefore, to those who offer training programs that raise the skills of employees".
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"In a world increasingly aware of the importance of caring for the environment, automotive workshops are taking significant steps to adopt green practices that not only benefit the planet, but also improve their operational efficiency," said the director of this award. In these, in turn, innovation within the industry is highlighted, linked to the implementation of effective marketing strategies to generate business growth and longterm sustainability. "The machine shop market is highly competitive, with numerous workshops following the same customer base. Welldesigned marketing strategies help you stand out from the crowd, attract new customers and keep existing customers," said CALA Awards Project Leader Andrea Ochoa.
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"This, in turn, leads to steady growth and greater financial stability. However, we keep in mind that effective marketing is not only about attracting customers, but also about building a solid and recognizable brand. A strong brand inspires confidence in customers and can be a decisive factor in their choice of mechanical workshop," Ochoa said. Evaluation of nominations by experts To ensure a fair and accurate evaluation, a distinguished panel of judges, comprised of experts in industry, sustainability, marketing and employee training, will review each application based on rigorous parameters. The judges will evaluate various aspects of each workshop, including the improvement of the facilities, the technology used and the brands of machinery employed. They will also focus on the green practices implemented and the results achieved through the responsible management and use of resources, as well as best practices for repair, energy saving and effective waste management.
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In terms of marketing and promotion, the effectiveness of marketing strategies will be analyzed in terms of customer growth, brand recognition and online engagement. Judges will focus on tangible results, such as increased website traffic and return on investment (ROI) on marketing projects. As for the training of technicians and employees, the jury members will examine the periodicity of training, the evaluation of technical skills and the presence of facilities with training rooms. In addition, the percentage of improvements in productivity and the reduction of delivery times will be measured.
To learn more about the CALA Awards for Best Mechanical Workshop in Latin America and South Florida, click here.
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[BUSINESS NEWS] AROUND THE INDUSTRY
Hexigone expands its reach in South America through Chilean distributor Adizol Chile. Sustainable corrosion inhibitor manufacturer, Hexigone Inhibitors, introduces its new distribution partnership with Adizol, a specialty chemicals distributor based in Santiago, Chile. This strategic collaboration brings Hexigone's ion exchange corrosion inhibitors to the heart of the Chilean coatings industry. Adizol has more than 20 years of experience in delivering technical products to the market, positioning itself as a trusted name in the region. His passion for environmental sustainability aligns perfectly with Hexigone's vision of creating a safer, more sustainable world through innovative solutions. Ella Newington, Marketing Manager at Hexigone, expressed her excitement about this new venture, stating, "We are thrilled to partner with Adizol to bring our Intelli-ion technology to the Chilean market." "This collaboration is an exciting opportunity, especially given the significant mining and construction industries in Chile that require anti-corrosion coatings to safeguard equipment and infrastructure. A sustainable alternative that excels in performance will be welcomed in this region!" he added.
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Bernardo Bollmann, Technical & Development Director at Adizol, shared his perspective: "Our partnership with Hexigone signifies our joint commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge solutions in the coatings industry. Hexigone's corrosion inhibitors are unique and we know our customers will be excited to start testing and using something new within our market." Together with Adizol and MCassab (Hexigone's new Brazilian distributor), the company will have a strong presence at the upcoming Abrafati event, where they are eager to meet with South American coatings manufacturers. This event provides a unique opportunity to meet the Hexigone team, learn more about their intelligent Intelli-ion technology, and how it can improve primer coatings. In addition, to present their solutions to the Chilean market, Hexigone and Adizol will hold a webinar on Tuesday, November 7.
Interested customers can register by visiting
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Malcolm Sissmore Named Head of North American Marketparts
Korean electronic components manufacturer lands in Querétaro
United States. Marketparts has announced that Malcolm Sissmore has joined the organization as its North American Area Director. Sissmore comes to the international sales platform with rich experience in the North American aftermarket for many years, most recently as Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Delphi Technologies-BorgWarner. "His experience spans both new and remanufactured products, making him a valuable addition to our team," notes Marketparts. Sissmore has a long history in the Canadian and North American aftermarket. He held several positions of increasing responsibility at Delphi and Borg-Warner starting in 2008. Sissmore worked in a leadership role at exhaust manufacturer Ultra-Fit and his early days in the industry can be traced back to his days in the world of engine machining and rebuilding. He has also been heavily involved in industry initiatives, including Canada's auto industry, including a term as president in 2005. He also currently serves on the board of directors of the aftermarket fundraising organization, Shad's R&R. Marketparts claims to be the world's leading B2B marketplace dedicated to manufacturers and distributors of automotive parts. According to information from the company, more than 15,000 distributors in 125 countries are currently connected, with a rate of about 80 new account openings daily.
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Mexico. Protonics, a Korean automotive company, will install a plant in the municipality of Pedro Escobedo, where it will make an initial investment of 4 million dollars. From this complex, the company expects to add 150 jobs in three stages, according to a statement from the state Secretariat of Sustainable Development (Sedesu). Protonics President Yang Goo Han said the firm will achieve good results with the help of its staff. This investment project is part of the global trend of offshoring, said the secretary of Sedesu, Marco Antonio Del Prete Tercero, noting that the state has the four elements that must be met before nearshoring: having room to invest, supplier base, energy supply and talent. The company, according to the head of Sedesu, will be located in the industrial zone of Las Palmas, joining the 75 Korean companies already operating in the state. During his remarks, the secretary of state said that the state has attracted $9.1 billion in Korean investment between 2006 and the first quarter of 2023. Protonics' investment is in addition to the 45 projects that have been completed in 2023, accumulating $1.4 billion in capital, as well as the addition of 12,790 employees.
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[TRADE SHOWS] AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET PLACES TO BE
AAPEX 2023 Announces Service & Repair Award Winners Inside the store, she excels at building relationships and communicating with customers. In the community, he coaches youth soccer, helps organizations in local schools, and hosts the KMOX Auto Show, a national radio show with millions of listeners. He also started a YouTube series through the store called "Tales from the Auto Shop," which covers topics related to the business. "With so many talented service advisors and writers across the country, it's a true honor to win this award and represent everyone else. However, I don't do this alone and I'm incredibly grateful and proud of the team I work with on a daily basis and the support of our owners," said Damon.
United States. AAPEX 2023 announced the winners of the annual service and repair awards that recognize and elevate the essential services provided by shop owners, service advisors and technicians to keep the motorist public on the road. AAPEX awarded the Store Owner of the Year award to Roy Foster, Roy Foster's Automotive, Reno, Nevada. The store was founded and named after Roy's father 75 years ago. Foster has led the business since 1994 and continues to build on his father's legacy. He is an avid advocate for apprenticeship programs, is a judge for SkillsUSA competitions, and speaks on Autovitals Digital Shop Talk Radio and the Remarkable Results Radio Podcast. He coaches youth baseball teams and sponsors the Reno American Little League, Procter Hug High School baseball, and Robert McQueen High School baseball. At his local women's shelter, Foster has partnered with his local parts suppliers to donate parts, while he provides the labor to keep residents' cars running. Through the Repair Shop for Tomorrow Brakes for Kids program, Foster has helped raise approximately $100,000 over two years for St. Jude Children's Hospital, of which nearly
$10,000 comes from Roy Foster's Automotive. "Being named AAPEX Shop Owner of the Year is humbling. Having grown up in my father's auto repair shop, I have been committed to the automotive aftermarket my entire life and am grateful for the incredible opportunities it continues to provide for growth. and give something back," Foster said. "One of the best ways I've been able to do that is through the NAPA Apprenticeship Program, which benefits newly trained technicians, shop owners, and the entire industry. It is an honor to continue serving the automotive aftermarket as an ambassador for AAPEX and the remarkable support it provides to all of us across the industry," he added. AAPEX awarded the Service Advisor of the Year award to Greg Damon, general manager of Sparks Tire & Auto, St. Charles, Missouri. Damon has served as a Service Advisor for 25 years and holds nine ASE certifications, in addition to the ASE C1 Service Consultant certification. He completes 80 hours of training a year and is best known for his dedication and determination to help people.
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AAPEX awarded the Technician of the Year award to Michael Miller, Master Technician, CarMax West Sahara, Las Vegas, Nevada. Miller's interest in auto repair began at the age of eight, while touring his father's shop after school. He has 30 years of experience and is an ASE Automotive Master Technician with L1. Over the course of his career, he has earned more than 50 ASE certifications. He is a world-class ASE/AAIA technician, which includes having his name perpetually entered into the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn, Michigan. He is a subject matter expert for ASE and helps write exam questions for the A1, A6, A8, L1 exams. and L3 tests. He also helped develop the A9 test and the current AAP online ASE recertification. He is a beta tester of Chrysler's wiTECH2 aftermarket software and provides feedback on the functionality of the scan tool, which is currently used as an OE tool for Chrysler (Stellantis) vehicles. He spends hundreds of hours each year attending training events and participating in webinars.
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[TRADE SHOWS] AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET PLACES TO BE
SEMA Show 2023 sets the pace for aftermarket growth United States. The 2023 SEMA Show officially opened by welcoming more than 2200 exhibitors and approximately 160,000 attendees to the Las Vegas Convention Center campus. This opens the doors to an event to network and discover the nextgeneration products that will drive business success, industry growth and the future of the aftermarket over the next year. The SEMA Show campus is packed with customized vehicles, interactive experiences and demonstrations, extensive networking opportunities, and thousands of new products for buyers and exhibitors looking for the "next big thing" for their businesses. "The connections made and the relationships built here this week will set the course for our industry," said Tom Gattuso, SEMA's vice president of events.
These strong economic indicators are generating optimism among SEMA members. In SEMA's recently released State of the Industry Report, two-thirds of companies in the industry report stable or growing sales over the past year and 55% of manufacturers expect growth in the coming year. "The incredible support of this year's SEMA Show demonstrates that our industry is strong and thriving," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "Our members, many of whom are small businesses, are true engines of growth and prosperity in America," he said.
"The show gives our members the opportunity to build those important relationships with professional industry colleagues, both at the show and at dozens of other events, and ensure future success."
Attendees come to the SEMA Show from all over the United States and around the world to make connections and discover the latest products that will drive their business growth. The New Products Showcase, moved to the North Hall, is a must-see for those looking for the latest and greatest innovations in style and performance products from hundreds of legendary start-ups and exhibitors.
The 2023 Show opens at a time of tremendous growth and optimism across the industry. A new SEMA Economic Impact Report recently found that the aftermarket industry contributes $337 billion to the U.S. economy and creates 1.3 million jobs, employing more people than the U.S. aviation industry and the entire film and video production industry.
The SEMA Show is constantly evolving, a feature exemplified by exhibitors. This year, more than 20 percent of exhibitors are at SEMA for the first time, including Sandy Vans, a Chula Vista, Californiabased manufacturer of lifestyle accessories and products that helps people get the most out of their vans and enjoy the adventurous outdoor lifestyle.
The industry is at the forefront of adopting policies and technologies that help reduce vehicle emissions, fostering companies that are at the forefront of change and innovation, while the Show serves as a critical annual platform to help small businesses grow, build partnerships, and drive the industry forward.
"SEMA is not just a trade show; it's the pulse of the auto industry, highlighting what's next," said Alan Mondus, co-founder and CEO of Sandy Vans. "We are really excited and grateful to join SEMA for the first time and share our line of exterior products and top-of-the-line vans."
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[TRADE SHOWS] AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET PLACES TO BE
Automechanika Shanghai Offers Sneak Peek at Automotive Conference Other topics include: the global business strategies of major top-tier suppliers and prospects on the Chinese market; how parts and components suppliers can improve their businesses efficiently under electrification and digitalization; A long-term perspective of transformation in the global automotive supply chain. The public can stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving automotive industry thanks to this range of future-focused topics.
International. From November 29 to December 2, 2023, Automechanika Shanghai will open its 18th edition, hosting more than 5,300 exhibitors in more than 300,000 square meters of the National Convention and Exhibition Center (Shanghai). Recognized globally as one of the most influential platforms for the automotive industry, the expo remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting business growth and navigating market transformation. Among some 60 complementary events, the first International Automotive Industry Conference 2023, presented by Automechanika Shanghai, will be a highlight; It includes a series of events that focus on developments and advancements within specific sectors. Overall, this year's supplementary program will feature industry experts, thought leaders and high-level representatives from around the world. The events are expected to amplify the rapid advancements in technology and the macro-operating environment in different global automotive markets. The show, which delves into key supply chain sectors, is set to reveal the industry's most pressing issues as the 2023 International Automotive Industry Conference, presented by Automechanika Shanghai, takes center stage. The event will explore the growing influence of new energy vehicles (NEVs), electrification and digitalisation, and how the industrial chain, market, policies and regulations are adapting based on these trends. The international attraction is meant to generate interesting discussions about opportunities for collaboration between countries and regions, as well as address some market challenges. Dr. Qing Ding, founding partner of Shentou Capital, will moderate the conference, which will bring together leading automotive parts companies such as Bilstein, Bosch, Rheinmetall, Tieliu, and more. One such speaker, Mr. Sun Xiaohong, Secretary-General of the Automobile Division of the China Chamber of Commerce for Imports and Exports of Machinery and Electronic Products, will take the lead and share an analysis of the import and export of vehicles and auto parts and components. .
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Specialists from China and Europe will consider the development of NEV as the catalyst for transformation, upgrading and decarbonization and share case studies on environmental protection. For example, Mr. Robert L Galyen, former CTO of Contemporary Amperex Technology, will attend this forum as one of the speakers. He is part of a prestigious group of experts in battery energy storage and scientific engineering. Topics at the forum include: the applications and innovations of lithium batteries in new energy vehicles; a model of the hydrogen vehicle value chain; update on the development of charging stations in Europe; the influence of the new EU Battery Regulation on new energy vehicles and batteries; A New Energy Future: Hydrogen Batteries vs. Lithium Batteries. Given the technological and mechanical differences of NEVs (compared to traditional fuel vehicles), it's only natural that industry-wide transformations are taking place throughout the supply chain. Speakers such as Ms. Lang Xuehong, Deputy Secretary-General of China Automobile Dealers Association and Director of Industry Coordination, Secretary-General of the Industry Coordination and Development Committee, and Mr. Wang Songtao, Regional President of Automotive Aftermarket, Asia Pacific, Robert Bosch GmbH, as well as decision-makers from leading repair companies, They will delve into topics such as the following: -An analysis of the main automotive aftermarket globally • Changes in automotive spare parts distribution channels across Europe -The evolution of digitalization drives the growth of spare parts sales in the aftermarket -Navigating the development of automotive spare parts distribution in China • The integration of traditional maintenance and the aftermarket for new energy vehicles -Used Vehicle Development & Strategy Forum 2023 (December 1) -The experts will evaluate the business opportunities arising from the circulation of used vehicles. Key topics include: a review and forecast of China's used car export market; trends in the automotive markets of the Middle East and Africa; The advantages and challenges of exporting.
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