Extended range, competitive pricing multi-sourcing digital solution:
Gaël Escribe, CEO NEXUS Automotive International
N! NEWS
Driving business forward: The Liqui Moly NEXUS Auto Tour
N! Business Forum, Abu Dhabi April 8-10: A global stage for sharing insights and inspiration on complex industry subjects
SmartParts announces DR!VE+ North America launch at NEXUS Business Forum 2025
Automotive
INSIDERS
The future of automotive aftermarket: adapting to rapid changes, Bandel
How innovation is reshaping shortage management in the Automotive Aftermarket, Marketparts
Mobilion Ventures: Driving the Future of Digital & Sustainable Mobility
Interview of Thierry Mugnier, CFIO NEXUS Automotive International
Rethinking Innovation: Efficiency First in the Workshop, N! Service
Paving the way for an energy-efficient world: BorgWarner EGR Technologies, Borgwarner
Innovation: Making Great Technology Greater, Dinex
Exide with a new label design for Automotive Light Vehicle range to simplify battery selection
KYB has unveiled a brand new truly environmentally friendly hydraulic fluid called SustainaLubTM
How innovative is the Independent Aftermarket?, SKF
Solera – accelerating automotive intelligence
A profitable workshop is a trained workshop!
Maximizing Mobility Uptime – Interview with Philippe Colpron, Head of ZF Aftermarket
INSIDE 40 | JULY 2025
NEXUS IN ! SIDE MAGAZINE is published by NEXUS Automotive International, Geneva, Switzerland.
NEXUS Automotive International SA Chemin du Château-Bloch 11
1219 Le Lignon | Geneva | Switzerland
T +41 22 306 49 50
www.nexusautomotiveinternational.eu
WELCOME FROM THE CEO
Dear Readers,
As you know, we are going through a period of constant transformation in business and especially in the automotive industry. Technology has evolved tremendously in recent years, we are seeing the democratization of big data, artificial intelligence and cloud computing. These are technologies that have changed the way organisations function worldwide.
In our sector though, we are also going through the electrification of drivetrains, the emergence of autonomous driving, connected cars and ADAS. We are in one of the most dynamic industries there is, which forces us to be more innovative and agile than ever. As the vehicle fleet continues to age, we still have a moment to adapt to these changes in the aftermarket, but more importantly, we are obliged to innovate on our side as well.
One of the big advantages of the NEXUS Community is that we all share a collaborative spirit, which allows us to address each other’s challenges and turn them into innovative opportunities. At NEXUS Automotive International we have always believed that innovation cannot remain stagnant – innovation works best when in constant evolution. In the future, you will discover how the NEXUS ecosystem will continue its transformation.
With this 40th edition of the IN!SIDE magazine we look to invite our N! Community to join us on this never-ending pursuit of innovation, through its opportunities, challenges, to brighten our future together.
With best regards,
Gaël Escribe CEO of NEXUS Automotive International
N! NEWS
GAËL ESCRIBE, CEO of NEXUS Automotive International
Driving business forward: The Liqui Moly NEXUS Auto Tour
Gaël Escribe, Founding Partner and CEO of NEXUS Automotive International, is not only a leading voice in the global automotive aftermarket, he is also passionate about classic cars. As regular racer and winner of the Tour Auto in 2020, he brings a deep personal connection to automotive culture. In this interview, he unveils the Liqui Moly NEXUS Auto Tour—yet another business-driving innovation from NEXUS.
Can you tell us about the Liqui Moly NEXUS Auto Tour and what makes it special?
Absolutely! The Liqui Moly NEXUS Auto Tour is a unique three-day rally that celebrates our shared passion for cars—especially classic ones—while creating powerful business synergies. From the serene shores of Évian to the glamour of Monaco, participants will enjoy breathtaking sceneries, curated drives, and exclusive access to key NEXUS members and suppliers.
What inspired NEXUS to create this event?
At NEXUS, we’ have always believed that business is ultimately about people. Before the pandemic, we ran a couple of pilot editions that were extremely well-received. Now, we are bringing the concept to life as a flagship annual gathering for genuine aftermarket enthusiasts and change-makers.
Who is invited to participate, and what can attendees expect?
This exclusive event is open to selected NEXUS suppliers, who will have the unique opportunity to invite and engage directly with key NEXUS members. This a rare platform to strengthen relationships, share experiences, and explore new business opportunities in a relaxed yet focused setting.
How will the event support business networking?
More than just a scenic rally, the Tour is crafted to spark authentic conversations and forge real business connections. Whether during networking stops, shared meals, or spontaneous road conversations, every moment is a chance to build trust, align goals, and shape future collaborations.
When and where does the event take place?
The journey begins on Thursday, September 11, 2025, in Évian, and winds its 800 km journey through stunning alpine and coastal routes to a great final in Monte-Carlo at the Automobile Club de Monaco on Saturday, September 13.
I would like to express my sincere thanks to all our partners — Liqui Moly, of course, Bilstein, NRF, UFI Filters, a well as Astemo and Nissens — for trusting us and making this event possible.
SCAN HERE TO WATCH THE TEASER VIDEO
Evian to Monaco Scenic
BRIGHTENING OUR FUTURE TOGETHER
The event opened with the “Momentum” Plenary Session, in collaboration with INSEAD, a leading international business school.
Attendees gained insights on education, data, artificial intelligence, and business strategy in the US from industry experts. The session also addressed future challenges and opportunities for the aftermarket industry, with speakers from the N! Community sharing their perspectives with the support of Premium partners: Bilstein, Brembo, KYB, Mahle, NRF, Phinia/ Delphi, Schaeffler, SKF, TotalEnergies, Valeo, ZF & Mecafilter as regional partner.
The 3rd NEXUS Climate Day
A highlight of the forum is the third NEXUS Climate Day, which attracted around 200 participants. This event brought together sustainability experts with members of the N! community, representing the entire supply chain.
The NEXUS Climate Day focused on developing practical solutions, initiatives and best practices. Several Proof of Concepts (POCs) with key suppliers like Bosch, TotalEnergies, and Valeo, lead to the establishment of new NEXUS standards as the Green Garage.
These included Premium partners Astemo, Bosch, Delphi/Phinia, Mann+Hummel, NTN, SKF, TotalEnergies & Valeo with the support of Bilstein, Elring, KYB, Mecafilter, Mobilion, NRF & Smartparts.
Focus on Heavy Commercial Vehicles
This year’s NEXUS Business Forum has a special focus on the Heavy Commercial
N! NEWS
Vehicle (HD) sector. More than 50 NEXUS members from the HD sector are participating in Speed Date meetings with top suppliers.
For the first time, HD parts suppliers such as Cummins - Meritor, Dinex, Cojali/Jaltest, Knorr Bremse, Webasto, and Welte/EDS are showcased in a dedicated HD Village.
The event also features special activities related to HD parts and solutions. On Thursday April 10, the HD Strategic Committee held an exclusive meeting, bringing together NEXUS members from various regions to discuss strategic initiatives and trends shaping the future of the HD segment.
In a nutshell
More than 3,000 “speed date” meetings were organized to foster growth within the community and unlock new business opportunities, addressing key topics and facilitating discussions among members of the N! Community.
The White Beach Party took place at the St. Regis, Abu Dhabi, on the evening of Wednesday, April 9th. Bosch was named PC Supplier of the Year and Hengst HD Supplier of the Year. The Growth Champion awards were won by PHINIA (formerly Delphi) as Strategic Supplier and Dayco as Preferred Supplier.
Tavo was awarded HD Member of the Year, while Dinamik was awarded PC Member of the Year. Jeff Koviak – CEO APSG – from Federated Auto Parts received recognition for its 40th anniversary.
PASCAL POPIS, CEO of SmartParts
ROBERT ROOS, President of APSG and NEXUS North America
SmartParts announces DR!VE+
North America launch at NEXUS Business Forum 2025
SmartParts has announced the launch of DR!VE+ in North America at the 2025 NEXUS Business Forum in Abu Dhabi. This marks a major step in its global expansion, following strong growth in 2024 for the exclusive global aftermarket brand for NEXUS members worldwide.
The first phase will introduce a 8,500-part Chassis range, with further product lines to follow. DR!VE+ is emerging as the unified brand for NEXUS North America members. Additionally, SmartParts is unveiling a new DR!VE+ battery range, reinforcing its commitment to a comprehensive aftermarket offering.
To capitalize on growing market opportunities driven by the aging car parc and the transformation of the aftermarket, NEXUS decided 18 months ago to accelerate the deployment of the DR!VE+ brand. In November 2023, SmartParts was incor-
porated to lead the global expansion of DR!VE+, the exclusive aftermarket brand for NEXUS members.
Strong commercial growth in 2024 & high ambitions for 2025 SmartParts reinforced its impact on the NEXUS community with very significant growth in 2024—welcoming over 20 new NEXUS members, increasing revenue by 50%, and expanding its reach to more than 80 members and customers in 50 countries. This success validates SmartParts’ potential to play a leading role in the evolving global aftermarket.
With 2025 poised to be a transformative year, SmartParts aims to significantly increase its turnover while fast-tracking expansion into North America, India, and Asia.
Expansion into North America
At the NEXUS Business Forum in Abu Dhabi, the launch of DR!VE+ in North America was officially announced, with ambitious targets set.
“Like in other regions, North America’s aging car parc—now averaging almost 13 years— is driving demand for entry-level product ranges. DR!VE+ is the natural choice for NEXUS North America members. The first phase of our North America launch will focus on the Chassis range, offering 8,500 part numbers, with a roadmap to introduce multiple additional product lines over the next 18 months,” said Robert Roos, President of APSG and NEXUS North America. “This joint initiative marks a key milestone in the history of NEXUS North America”.
Expanding the global range:
Batteries & enhanced coverage
SmartParts did unveil its all-new DR!VE+ battery range now available in Europe, at NEXUS Business Forum.The lineup, designed for both light vehicles and heavyduty applications, is segmented into four distinct categories— DR!VE+ Platinum (AGM), DR!VE+ Performance (EFB), DR!VE+ Essential (SLI) and DR!VE+ Access (Commercial Vehicles only) —making it easier for distributors and mechanics to select the right product
The battery range includes 61 part numbers, covering 99% of EU market demand and catering to older small vehicles, the latest hybrid models, and commercial applications. DR!VE+ batteries meet the highest industry standards and performance requirements.
Overall, the DR!VE+ portfolio expanded by more than 1,100 new part numbers in 2024, bringing the total to over 11,000 part numbers. This momentum will continue in 2025, with additional product lines set to join the family in the second half of the year.
Pascal Popis, CEO of SmartParts, commented: “2024 has been an exceptional year for SmartParts. With sales more than doubling compared to last year, this growth reflects the strong commitment of NEXUS members, the power of the DR!VE+ brand, and the dedication of our team. The key milestone for 2025 will be the DR!VE+ launch in North America, further strengthening its position as the global aftermarket brand exclusive to NEXUS members.”
To support your business growth, DR!VE+—the global aftermarket brand exclusive to NEXUS members—is offering you:
• Exclusive access to a trusted brand
• Robust OE-matching product ranges
• Reliable, high-quality service
• Strong, attractive margins
Every DR!VE+ purchase supports your NEXUS compliance ratio, as part of the NEXUS Supplier Book. Contact your NEXUS Business Developer or the SmartParts team for more information.
BRUNO PERCHEC,
Global Suppliers & Tires Manager, NEXUS Automotive International
NEXUS Automotive International unveils Global strategic Tire partnerships
NEXUS Automotive International has launched its Global Tire Strategic Program, marking a significant shift in focus toward the tire business. This ambitious initiative builds the largest global connected tire ecosystem, leveraging strategic partnerships, innovative agreements and cutting-edge digital platforms.
Focused on aftermarket spare parts since its creation in 2014, NEXUS Automotive International decided in early 2024 to invest strategically in the tire business.
NEXUS is now building a connected ecosystem around tires that can be industrialized and scaled across multiple countries.
NEXUS Automotive International has secured global partnerships with three world-class tire manufacturers—Continental, Linglong, and ZC Rubber—and a global agreement with WYZ Group, a tire digital solutions specialist.
These partnerships are built around threekey principles: ease of doing business, availability of products, a wide offering, and a combination of stock and drop-shipping solutions.
• Continental: NEXUS is strengthening its global strategic agreement by positioning Continental as its strategic supplier for the premium tire segment. By leveraging Continental’s high-quality products and extensive expertise, NEXUS will give its members top-tier tire solutions that ensure reliability and performance.
• Linglong: The new global agreement in the quality segment leverages Linglong’s recent investments in OE advanced technologies, brand activities, and its ultra-modern factory in Serbia. In Europe, this agreement will be powered by Dipropneu, a leading European tire wholesaler providing products and support for the Linglong partnership.
• ZC Rubber: The new global agreement provides an exclusive global brand— “RISEN”—for NEXUS members. With the tagline “Ready to go further” the brand combines advanced technology and innovation to boost driver confidence on the road. This agreement is supported by Districash, Europe’s #4 tire wholesaler, which will provide products and support for the ZC Rubber partnership.
• WYZ Group: NEXUS has chosen WYZ Group as global strategic partner for its digital platform. WYZ Group brings 16 years of experience in tire digital solutions by connecting multiple stocks, managing business rules, handling complex catalogues, and devising pricing strategies. This collaboration will give NEXUS distributors and their clients the confidence to sell tires with the right product choice, optimal availability and competitive pricing.
Building on an existing business of roughly 15 million tires per year, the Global Tire Strategic Program will represent:
• A well-understood product category within the NEXUS community
• A double-digit total volume increase, establishing NEXUS as one of the largest tire distributors worldwide
• A strong community of NEXUS Tire Specialists exchanging best practices and collaborating on joint procurement initiatives
• An exclusive brand that gives NEXUS members the confidence to grow their tire business
• A robust tire garage program, supported by a unique and flexible digital platform for NEXUS members, which will be fully integrated with the Service Next WOP garage platform
• 100% of the tire volume tracked through the digital platform, allowing for effective monitoring and steering of purchases
• Tire volumes distributed through a combination of direct wholesaling and dropshipping arrangements.
Bruno Perchec, Global Suppliers & Tires Manager, NEXUS Automotive International, said: “Tires are the primary reason for cars entering workshops, so it is essential for distributors to strengthen their relationships with customers, especially as they navigate an increasingly competitive market. By offering a one-stop-shop service for parts and tires, NEXUS will help its members maintain a strong competitive presence in their marketplace.”
NEXUS Automotive International’s investment in tires aligns with its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and growth. By strategically embracing the tire industry, NEXUS remains at the forefront of shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket.
INSIDERS INNOVATION
BANDEL’S COMMITMENT TO DIGITALISATION
THE FUTURE OF AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: ADAPTING TO RAPID CHANGES
How do you see the future of the automotive aftermarket in a short term, in a long term in a challenged context (electrification, AI,…)?
In the short term, we see increasing pressure on traditional aftermarket models— driven by rapid technological advancements and changing customer expectations. Electrification is altering the demand for certain parts, while artificial intelligence is fundamentally transforming how services are delivered.
In the long run, however, we are confident that the aftermarket will emerge stronger—more connected, smarter, and more sustainable. Companies that actively embrace transformation and invest in digital capabilities will be best positioned for longterm success. Data, predictive analytics, and intelligent supply chains will play a central role.
What are you expecting from N! community? What are your reasons to be proud to join NEXUS?
Access to international suppliers, structured market channels, and impulses around innovation were important steps for us. Our aim is to expand our existing network in a targeted way and unlock new potential for future development.
We see the partnership with NEXUS as a strategic opportunity to strengthen our position in the market and respond even more effectively to upcoming challenges.
What are you willing to bring to N! Community?
We offer a high level of digital expertise, lean structures, and strong customer proximity. Through our experience in online retail, efficient logistics, and data-driven product management, we provide practical perspectives for the further development of the aftermarket.
Our focus is clearly on operational excellence, innovation, and the ability to implement quickly—values we also want to contribute to the partnership.
How innovation is part of your daily business?
For us, innovation means consistently questioning processes and identifying opportunities for improvement—whether through the use of new technologies, automation systems, or enhanced customer interfaces.
We don’t see innovation as a one-off project, but as a continuous mindset embedded across all areas of our company. Our goal is to achieve lasting efficiency gains while continuously improving the customer experience.
Bandel Automobiltechnik GmbH is a leading online retailer of automotive spare and wear parts based in Henstedt-Ulzburg, near Hamburg. Since our founding in 2007, we have focused on providing high-quality products and customer-oriented services. Innovation, digitalization, and operational efficiency shape our day-to-day business. Our goal is to be a reliable partner for our customers and suppliers—through modern solutions and a strong, dedicated team.
A TRANSFORMATION IS TAKING PLACE
MARCEL OOSENBRUGH, Chairman Marketparts
HOW INNOVATION IS RESHAPING SHORTAGE MANAGEMENT IN THE AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET
In the world of automotive spare parts, one rule is clear: if it’s not on the shelf, it’s not in the sale.
Wholesalers and suppliers constantly walk a tightrope between overstock and shortage - a challenge made harder by fragmented data, unpredictable demand, and a general reluctance to share sensitive information.
But quietly, a transformation is taking place.
At the intersection of tradition and technology, a new kind of solution is emerging. Not one that seeks to disrupt the industry, but one that refines it. And at the center of
this evolution is a platform that’s gaining recognition fast: Marketparts.
The power of a connected network Imagine seeing not just what’s missing from your own stock, but from across an entire network - all without compromising your strategy.
This is the promise of a connected inventory system: fewer dead ends when sourcing rare parts, quicker turnarounds, and real-time responsiveness when every second counts.
Rather than a revolution, this is a refinement - eliminating the long-standing friction points that have slowed the aftermarket for years.
Marketparts leads this new model with a neutral, secure platform where inventory data can be shared anonymously. For professionals long limited by traditional inventory management, it’s a game-changer.
Transparency without exposure
In such a competitive market, transparency is often seen as risky. Few wholesalers want to admit what they’re missing - or reveal surplus stock.
Marketparts changes the equation. By anonymizing data exchange, it removes the risk while unlocking the benefits of collaboration.
The result? Fewer stockouts, better stock rotation, and significantly improved fill rates - all driving better service and higher satisfaction.
From reaction to prediction
Connectivity is just the start. The real breakthrough is what happens when artificial intelligence joins the system.
With access to live inventory data, AI can now anticipate needs, flag trends, and suggest replenishments - often before humans notice the patterns.
Machine-to-machine negotiation is also emerging, automating common transactions and enabling optimized deals in real time.
This frees professionals to focus on higher-value tasks like strategy, partnerships, and growth.
A model based on renewal, not disruption
The automotive aftermarket is built on trust, precision, and experience. That’s why the most effective innovations are the ones that blend in - working quietly in the background to make things smoother, faster, and smarter.
Marketparts doesn’t promise a revolution. It offers something simpler: a smarter way to get parts where they’re needed, faster. And in the ongoing battle against inefficiency, that’s a promise worth exploring.
BOOST SERVICE LEVELS WITH SMARTER SOURCING OF OUT-OF-STOCK PARTS
ACCELERATING
INNOVATION IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY
MOBILION VENTURES: DRIVING THE FUTURE OF DIGITAL & SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY
An exclusive interview with Dr. Anat Bonshtien, Partner at Mobilion Ventures
Dr. Bonshtien, can you tell us a little bit about yourself, your experience, and why you believe the Mobilion team brings something unique to the automotive aftermarket?
With over a decade of experience leading innovation in the automotive and smart mobility sector—including serving as the Chairwoman and Director of Israel’s Prime Minister’s Smart Mobility Initiative and launching the EcoMotion community—I’ve had the opportunity to sit at the intersection of policy, industry, and technology and to promote global corporates’ collaborations. At Mobilion Ventures, we’ve built a team that reflects the full spectrum of what innovation in mobility requires.
We’re proud to have:
• Dr. David Abraham, our Deep Tech Partner, ex-Bosch CVC, brings cutting-edge technical expertise to evaluate and support disruptive technologies.
Avi Feldman, our managing partner and serial VC fund manager, has a proven track
record of building ventures and scaling them.
• Eyal Zbeda, a true automotive aftermarket expert, brings decades of hands-on experience from within the industry.
• Anna Leizerovici Ekstein, Ex-cybersecurity unicorn, Investment banking, and global expertise in business development, marketing, partnerships, and IR
This combination of deep tech, venture capital, and real-world aftermarket knowhow gives us a unique value proposition and differentiated positioning in the mobility investment landscape.
Can you briefly introduce Mobilion Ventures to our readers?
Mobilion Ventures is a leading early-stage Venture Capital Fund focused on digital & sustainable, disruptive mobility technologies. We invest in deep-tech startups that are reimagining transportation through the lens of electrification, AI, software, logistics, and next-gen mobility services.
What is unique about Mobilion versus other VCs is the unique investment strategy and go-to-market approach, where we place the automotive aftermarket as the main channel to validate and commercialize our startups’ solutions.
We created a platform that brings more value than a regular VC – we excel at accelerating the time to market of our portfolio startups, making sure that they succeed in their business targets.
Regarding our strategic partners in the industry, we greatly value an ongoing collaboration and discussion, sometimes tailormade, in order to create the best value for them.
Overall, our strategic approach is: we don’t just invest capital—we build bridges between startups and major global automotive and transportation players. Our goal is to decarbonize and digitize mobility solutions, creating a smarter, more connected world on wheels.
What have been some key milestones and success stories from Mobilion Ventures Fund 1?
So far, our first fund has exceeded expectations:
• We’ve invested in 12 cutting-edge startups (mainly from Israel and Europe) upon reviewing more than 1,500 startups. 10 out of which are already in sales in less than 2 years from our initial investment. Most of our startup’s sales are in the North America and EU markets, which are the
most dynamic automotive markets.
• Our first exit to General Motors (Algolion) is a clear validation of our investment strategy.
• One portfolio company is nearing unicorn status, with a valuation reaching hundreds of millions.
• We’ve expanded our operations into the UK, France, and Germany, establishing deep roots in Europe.
• Through strategic partnerships and syndications with Tier 1s, OEMs, and fellow VCs, we’ve helped our startups grow faster and reach global markets.
But beyond metrics, our biggest success is building a pipeline of companies that are future-ready, delivering both strong financial returns and real-world impact.
How do you see the future of the automotive aftermarket evolving, both short- and long-term?
The automotive aftermarket (AAM) is undergoing a significant transformation. This transformation brings both challenges, but more important are the opportunities. Tech and business trends like AI, electrification, and moving from an asset-based industry to a service-based one, have already started and will continue to affect the AAM in the very short, mid, and long terms.
In addition, sustainability and decarbonization goals enforced by regulation and customer demand for more efficient, digital,
and inclusive services will also play a big role in shaping the future AAM.
In the short- to mid-term (2025–2030), we foresee:
• AI-powered predictive maintenance reduces downtime and enhances service efficiency.
• A rapid expansion of EV-specific services, including battery diagnostics and robotic and wireless charging infrastructure.
• Improved digital customer engagement, with virtual assistants, subscription models, and smart diagnostics reshaping the customer journey.
In the long term, we anticipate structural shifts:
• Software and data will become central to aftermarket value, especially as EVs and autonomous vehicles proliferate.
• Traditional maintenance revenues will decline, while data-driven services, AI plat-
forms, and eco-friendly solutions (like battery recycling) will increase.
• New entrants, including tech companies and startups, will disrupt the landscape. –Comment: They are already doing that.
• On-demand manufacturing and 3D printing will decentralize parts production, reshaping global supply chains.
Only those who invest in connected and digital solutions, coupled with AI and sustainability, will remain competitive.
What attracted Mobilion Ventures to the Nexus community?
Nexus for us is more than a sheer business community or a network of players — we see it as a group that is capable of shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket. We see in the Nexus community the vision, the energy, and the needed entrepreneurial spirit to push existing borders and take advantage of the future challenges.
Mobilion Ventures team, 2024
We’re proud to be part of a community that doesn’t just react to change but proactively seeks to lead it. By collaborating with Nexus members and suppliers, we aim to invest in innovations that help them remain competitive, grow efficiently, and secure long-term returns.
We see the Nexus community as a big and expanding business club of like-minded entrepreneurs who are seeking to diversify their portfolio of products and services, and we can partner with having the same mindset and motivation. So, for us, partnering with the Nexus community is a partnership grounded in shared ambition: to innovate and elevate the aftermarket together.
And what does Mobilion Ventures bring to the Nexus community?
Taking into account the challenges that we’ve discussed earlier, and the focus area for our current and future investments, we see Mobilion as a gateway for innovation for the Nexus community in multiple layers of opportunities.
First and foremost, Mobilion stands as a “trends sensor” for the entire community. Our role is to identify, analyze, and educate the community as to future automotive developments that will influence us all. Secondly, our role is, together with Nexus, to offer a concrete mitigating solution.
We’ve created the Nexus Innovation Platform (powered by Mobilion), which
is a program designed to add value and technological strength to the Nexus community, both distributors and suppliers, exposing them to the latest trends, innovations, and solutions. The target of this Platform is to expose and offer existing business opportunities and help the Nexus community members grow their businesses, improve their business efficiency, and reduce operational costs.
Through tailored networking opportunities and discussions on unique, industry-specific topics, the platform directly addresses the community’s needs and challenges, enabling impactful collaboration and innovation.
And lastly, the investment angle – taking advantage of our unique position and resources, to invest for the benefit of those in the community that would like to profit from the value that can be created through introducing new technologies and solutions.
How does innovation play a role in your daily work?
Innovation is the core of what we do daily. Beyond analyzing trends and piloting technologies, we engage deeply with our portfolio companies through weekly hands-on meetings, helping them refine strategy, navigate challenges, and seize new opportunities. We don’t just invest—we sit on the boards and act as true partners in growth.
Our team maintains constant dialogue with the broader ecosystem—investors, corpo-
rates, accelerators, and strategic players— facilitating warm referrals and unlocking access to new global decision-makers and distribution forces through curated events and long-term collaborations.
Our role is to turn early-stage innovation into global impact by bridging visionary ideas with funding, mentoring, and powerful go-to-market partners.
Finally, how do you envision Mobilion Ventures Fund 2?
Fund 2 is our next big step. Mobilion is not just a one-time fund, but we’re building a legacy of global mobility funds. Following the success of Mobilion 1, it is a natural step for us to expand geographically and broaden our partner base. Other than the Tel Aviv and Paris offices, we’ve expanded our presence to two major mobility innovation hubs - Germany and the UK. In addition, we extended our
investment fields to the whole mobility landscape, including logistics, Sustainable mobility, and digital mobility services.
Moreover, we see the emerging ties with Nexus maturing and starting to bear fruit with three portfolio companies that have already become Nexus suppliers.
It will be larger, more global, and even more strategically positioned. We’re expanding into Southeast Asia and the entire Middle East, diversifying our investor base, and sharpening our focus on early-stage, high-impact ventures.
Our goal? More successful exits, greater financial returns, and broader mobility impact. Fund 2 will enable us to back the next generation of mobility disruptors and continue driving meaningful innovation across the ecosystem.
BUILDING THE FUTURE OF NEXUS BY TRANSFORMING IDEAS INTO ACTION
Interview of Thierry Mugnier, CFIO NEXUS Automotive International
Why is innovation so important at NEXUS?
From the very beginning 11 years ago, innovation has been one of the key pillars of the NEXUS ecosystem. Our development has been driven by innovation from day one — from the creation of the international trading group to the incubation of innovative solutions that bring value to our members, manufacturers, and workshop networks.
NEXUSAUTO, for instance, is a great example of how we have built structured, pioneering companies. The NEXUS Academy platform was developed in the same spirit — collaboratively, and with a focus on added value. One of our strengths at NEXUS is consistently thinking outside the box and asking, “How can we do better?” Not just avoiding mistakes but proactively seeking ways to enhance our business impact and capacity.
This mindset has led us to partner with many entrepreneurs, always filtering innovation through our strategy, our teams, and
our corporate governance. Innovation has become, in many ways, a core part of our business. At the same time, we also look outward — at how we can foster innovation in more traditional ecosystems.
It is about constantly challenging ourselves. Innovation keeps us forward-looking. It brings in fresh energy and people with new perspectives. At our last NEXUS Business Forum, Gaël Escribe, CEO talked about Gen Z — new profiles who speak the language of data and AI. Who would’ve thought, two or three years ago, that these topics would be so central to NEXUS? Yet here we are. That’s what creates momentum — staying open to opportunities in a rapidly evolving ecosystem.
Sometimes, we may decide a particular innovation doesn’t fit within NEXUS. Other times, we recognize an opportunity that aligns with our community and take on the challenge of developing new business models — by and for our industry.
BUILDING THE FUTURE OF NEXUS BY TRANSFORMING IDEAS INTO ACTION
What are the focus areas for innovation in NEXUS’ strategy?
As I mentioned, Mobilion is focusing on green and smart mobility. We work closely with them to identify key industry milestones.
But it is important to clarify, innovation doesn’t always mean launching new services or products. It is about doing things differently — reframing how we create value in ways that weren’t previously anticipated. Looking ahead, I’d say the top priority is data. Data is central to NEXUS’ strategy. It enables better forecasting, inventory management, pricing strategies, and supply chain simplification, which is particularly important in today’s volatile geopolitical and economic climate.
So yes, we are heavily investing in data to equip the NEXUS community to meet these new challenges. That is the immediate strategic milestone.
Beyond data, we’re also looking to strengthen our core business, enhance our workshop service offerings, and develop integrated solutions. We are innovating both within traditional models and through new ecosystems, such as startups or external collaborations.
Whether it is improving procurement, expanding into new areas like insurance, or optimizing transactions, innovation takes many forms. Some of it happens within our traditional frameworks, some of it emerges from new models. But in both cases, innovation is the driving force.
What is the overall innovation outlook for the coming years? You mentioned sustainability. What about remanufacturing, for example?
Remanufacturing is not just about innovation — it is about adopting a necessary business model. We need to push forward together to integrate “reman” parts into a sustainable and circular economy. This creates opportunities for our distributors, especially from a logistics standpoint. It’s already well-developed in regions like North America, and we need to catch up.
As for the overall innovation outlook, it’s about developing new services that support the entire NEXUS ecosystem — manufacturers and distributors alike. Data, logistics simplification, and trans action optimization are key. Over the past six months, we conducted a strategic review with Roland Berger, involving a large part of our community.
The strategy we’re finalizing — pending board and shareholder approval, will place innovation at its core. But implementing this requires thinking differently about what an ITG (International Trading Group) can be. Not abandoning our core business but complementing it.
Five years ago, no one talked seriously about monetizing data, except the data experts themselves. Now, we’re part of an ecosystem where we sell parts, services, and data. The next step is leveraging our community — acting together to drive innovation that creates real industry value.
And it’s not just external. Internally, we have launched a major program to review and improve all our processes. You can’t claim to be innovative if you’re not willing to challenge yourself. We’re not data experts yet — but we have the ambition, the appetite, and we’re ready to invest. We’ll learn from others, across industries, and act when the time is right.
So, for 2025–2026, we expect new services, new ideas, and just as importantly, new internal processes. We’re working to simplify, pool resources, and boost our innovation as an ITG — blending both external and internal innovation, because one cannot exist without the other.
RETHINKING INNOVATION: EFFICIENCY FIRST IN THE WORKSHOP
Innovation is not about looking modern, it should always be about working better. True progress lies in tools and services that serve a purpose: efficiency, reliability, and support for professionals on the ground. INNOVATION SHOULD ALWAYS SUPPORT, NOT COMPLICATE
For many years, the evolution of workshop tools and services followed a steady, step-bystep path. Changes were gradual, improvements were mechanical, and workshops could adapt at a manageable pace. That rhythm has changed. Today, the Automotive Aftermarket is entering a new phase, shaped by digitalisation, connectivity, and new mobility expectations. Electric vehicles, evolving regulations, and new service models are gradually transforming the way we work. Developments that once took years are now accelerating. It is not disruption for the sake of disruption, but a steady and meaningful shift toward smarter, more integrated solutions.
In this context, innovation plays a central role. Across our tools, training programs, and service structures, NEXUS Service see it at every level: from diagnostics and digital workflows to connected equipment and sustainability initiatives.
But this transformation should not be overwhelming. It should be guided, relevant, and always designed to serve professionals on the ground. So, what is innovation, truly?
It is not about appearances or trends. It is about real progress: tools and solutions that make daily work more efficient, reliable, and intuitive. Innovation should always support, not complicate.
At NEXUS Service, we consider this mindset as a mantra and are selecting partners that could lead us in this direction, as it is the case with Service Next, your digital factory.
INNOVATION THAT WORKSSERVICE NEXT IS BUILDING THE FUTURE OF AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES
Innovation is often misunderstood as simply inventing something new. For Service Next, it means much more than that. Indeed “True” innovation is when an invention meets a market — when an idea becomes a tool that solves real problems and creates real progress. In our case, that progress happens in the garage.
CONNECTING DEPARTMENTS, EMPOWERING PEOPLE
At Service Next, innovation isn’t a buzzword; it’s a department. We built a dedicated Innovation & Development (R&D) structure going far beyond launching new solutions. It is a bridge between every area of our
company: technical and digital departments, customer support, commercial, and training activities. Its goal is to ensure they all operate with the latest technology, clean data, and efficient systems. Innovation here is about integration. It’s about making the processes behind the scenes smarter, more agile, and easier to use.
FROM CONCEPTS TO REAL TOOLS FOR ENHANCING INDEPENDENT GARAGES DAY TO DAY ACTIVITIES
Whether it’s an internal platform or a new solution for garages, every development we deliver is designed to save time, reduce errors, and support better decisions.
N!SERVICE
We’re currently developing innovation:
● Augmented Reality training, allowing technicians to interact with virtual elements in physical space and learn in a more immersive, effective way.
● AI-driven features integrated in GO Platform that support diagnosis, data interpretation, and process automation, reducing time and complexity in the workshop.
● AI-powered customer care eco-system to accelerate access to product knowledge database.
● Enhanced Technical Assistance, including new channels to get diagnostic support, search error codes and get tech data, diagram, bulletins, and much more. These are not theoretical projects. They are built to be used and to generate added value from day one.
MORE THAN TECHNOLOGY
We don’t innovate for the sake of it. We innovate because the people who use our systems — mechanics, trainers, support teams — need better ways to work. Innovation only matters when it brings something useful to the people who need it.
That’s why we invent. That’s why we build. To bring garages to the next level.
FOCUS ON LAST SERVICE NEXT INNOVATION FOR WORKSHOPS : AUGMENTED REALITY (AR) TRAINING PROGRAM
You expect to train mechanics faster but difficult to attract them.
You are looking for providing comprehensive trainings, but mechanics cannot close their shop and slow down their business activity.
You want to offer advanced content, but you face some safety issues to organize it.
With the new Augmented Reality (AR) component inspection feature, technicians can follow real-world step-bystep procedures, with tools and parts projected directly into their workshop through Meta Quest glasses. No physical equipment (except Glasses), no risk, no interruption. You bring the training centre to your location ! Why AR component inspection solution is the solution ?
As a new core element of Service Next Immersive training program, this feature already lets mechanics simulate the inspection of key systems: intake, fuel, ignition, cooling, exhaust, and auxiliary systems.
It’s a easier, safer, and highly visual way to teach what truly matters in the workshop; and already available for 20+ systems.
Garage benefits:
● Boost training efficiency with innovative “immersive” hands-on training.
● Minimize downtime. No work interruptions, you can dedicate 1 hour training directly on your premises.
● Reduce errors. Accurate procedures and real-time guidance ensure reliable results.
● Future-proof your workshop; stay ahead with cutting-edge technology that sets you apart and make independent garage appellant for young generations.
Want to see it in action? Contact us and discover how AR can transform garage training today !
Innovation is not a race, and it is certainly not about adopting change for the sake of being trendy. The most effective innovations are those that deliver clear, immediate value: better processes, smarter tools, easier training, and more responsive support. When innovation is grounded in the real needs of workshops, it becomes a driver of confidence, not complexity.
At NEXUS Service, we believe in solutions that are field-tested, scalable, and designed for people. That is why we work with partners like Service Next, who share our commitment to useful innovation, innovation that works, that integrates, and that empowers. As we look ahead, our goal remains clear, to help independent garages grow, evolve, and succeed — with tools and services designed not just to follow change, but to lead it.
Interested in shaping the future of the independent aftermarket? Contact us at service@nexusautomotive.eu to discover the full NEXUS Service portfolio of services and tools.
NEXUS Service team
A UNIQUE 360° DIGITAL PLATFORM
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION by License plate / VIN / Model
PARTS ORDERING with Price & Availability
TECHNICAL SUPPORT and Remote Diagnostic
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Maintenance & Repair
CUSTOMER MANAGEMENT
Clients & Vehicles
GARAGE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM from quotes to invoicing
INSIGHTS FROM THE AFTERMARKET WORLD AND BEYOND
BORGWARNER’S INNOVATIONS FOR GREENER EGR SOLUTIONS
PAVING THE WAY FOR AN ENERGYEFFICIENT WORLD: BORGWARNER EGR
TECHNOLOGIES
BorgWarner is at the forefront of providing compact and efficient solutions to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Their Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) modules, valves, and coolers are designed to meet the stringent demands of modern engines. As a comprehensive manufacturer of all EGR system components, BorgWarner ensures optimal coordination and integration, delivering a seamless solution for minimizing harmful emissions.
Effective EGR Technology
EGR technology is one of the most effective methods for reducing the environmental impact of exhaust pollutants while maintaining engine performance. By recirculating a portion of the exhaust gases back into the combustion chamber, EGR systems significantly reduce the formation of harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) and soot particulates. BorgWarner’s EGR valves and coolers are tailored to enhance this technology, making engines more eco-friendly and compliant with stricter emissions standards.
Comprehensive EGR Solutions
BorgWarner’s electrically controlled EGR valves are known for their high actuation force, fast response time, flexible mounting orientations, and compact design. These valves feature patented anti-contamination and anti-sticking technology, ensuring reliable operation even in harsh conditions. They cover a wide range of flow rates while maintaining a tight seal and resisting corrosion, helping vehicles meet global emissions standards.
BorgWarner’s EGR modules combine suitable valves, coolers, tubes, and bypass
BORGWARNER’S INNOVATIONS FOR GREENER EGR SOLUTIONS
valves for both high and low-pressure EGR systems. This integration ensures a robust and highly developed system tailored to every application. BorgWarner’s EGR modules optimize the combustion process, reduce fuel consumption and emissions, and are backed by 30 years of research and design experience in Germany, with production facilities in Germany and Portugal.
In 2024, BorgWarner introduced 11 new EGR modules and EGR valves for commercial vehicles and 21 new EGRs for passenger vehicles. Looking ahead, 2025 will see the launch of 12 new EGR modules and EGR valves for commercial vehicles, including brands such as AGCO, John Deere, CAT, Iveco, and FCA. For passenger vehicles, 2025 will feature 9 new EGRs for brands like Vauxhall, Audi, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Hyundai, Nissan, and VW.
BorgWarner’s EGR coolers are designed to meet increasingly strict emissions standards. They feature high-efficiency fins for a compact design and stainless steel components for improved durability and corrosion resistance. Suitable for a broad range of applications, from passenger vehicles to commercial diesel engines, BorgWarner’s EGR coolers ensure reduced fuel consumption and NOx emissions.
Our Mission: Less Is More BorgWarner Exhaust Gas Management Solutions are the clean solution for your Aftermarket business. With a commitment to innovation and sustainability, BorgWarner continues to pave the way for a cleaner and more energy-efficient world.
Extended EGR product range
Our EGR product portfolio contains more than 200 part numbers, which cover 64% of the vehicle population in Europe.
IT JUST CALLS FOR INNOVATION
INNOVATION: MAKING GREAT TECHNOLOGY GREATER
Euro VI emission technology represents the most advanced heavy-duty pollutant controls available in the market. So, what does the Aftermarket really have to offer, in terms of innovating that which is already state-of-the-art? Let’s dive in…
Today we will be challenging the conception that Aftermarket products compromise quality, in order to improve competitiveness. Driving down costs while maintaining (or even improving) product characteristics doesn’t have to be contradictory. It just calls for Innovation.
Can the Aftermarket be Innovative?
Aftermarket parts are bound by the fundamental requirement to be compatible with the vehicle for which they are intended. But that doesn’t prevent “out of the box”-thinking.
Since 1982, when Dinex pioneered assembly processes for truck silencers and introduced the market’s most durable and cost-effective design, innovation has been at our core. Though modern emission systems have very little in common with those 80’s exhausts, the same ambition still drives every Aftermarket product we put on the market: To apply all the latest knowledge available in the market, and the benchmarks.
Euro VI Silencers: Innovatively Reengineered 3 prime examples of recent Aftermarket innovation – besides Type Approval, 3-years warranty and a very competitive price tag
– are demonstrated by Dinex’ range of Euro VI silencers:
• Serviceability: The 2KC043 for Iveco Eurocargo is the first of its kind with all substrates replaceable without cutting or welding. This simplifies service and remanufacturing, supports circular economy, and an additional version for DAF CF/XF will hit the market in Q3 2025.
• Simplification: For the Volvo FH & FM range, our 8AC029 and 8AC030 allows the operator to pick between left- or rightsided exhaust, and obsoletes the need for further downstream piping, eliminating up to 6 additional components from the system layout.
• Assurance: Advanced engineering and AI-powered simulations, validated with real-world tests, ensure performance, integrity, and durability. The same goes for every DPF, DOC & SCR we supply to the remanufacturing industry with similar uncompromised quality.
What’s next?
While Euro VI has been around for more than 10 years, Innovation hasn’t stopped. As a trusted partner to the OEM industry, Dinex is at the forefront of industry trends and experience and will keep on applying innovative thinking to the Aftermarket.
ENERGIZING A
NEW WORLD JOURNEY
EXIDE WITH A NEW LABEL DESIGN FOR AUTOMOTIVE LIGHT VEHICLE RANGE TO SIMPLIFY BATTERY SELECTION
• Exide has rolled out new label design –with easy product identification the priority
At the beginning of the year, Exide Technologies, a leading provider of innovative and sustainable battery solutions for automotive and industrial applications, introduced a new label design for Exide Light Vehicle battery range with a contemporary design that significantly simplifies battery selection.
The new unified labels feature a clear color-coded design based on the corresponding battery technology, making it even easier for automotive aftermarket
distributors and technicians to choose the correct battery. Adhering to Exide Technologies’ new corporate identity, this update will also enhance brand awareness and brand recognition at the point of sales.
Exide’s LV battery range includes Exide AGM, EFB, Premium, Excell, and Classic. To ensure consistency with the latest fitments in hybrid and electric vehicles, Exide Start-Stop Auxiliary batteries have been integrated into the Exide AGM range.
The rollout of the new Exide LV label design began in the first quarter of 2025 and has continued into the second quarter. To ensure a smooth transition, the newly labeled products retain their existing article codes, allowing distributors to order as usual.
ENERGIZING A NEW WORLD JOURNEY
Continuing to innovate
This is the next step in Exide’s ongoing Energizing a New World journey. Launched four years ago, this initiative has focused on customer excellence, innovation, and sustainability. Since then, the company has redefined its brand values, introduced a new corporate identity, and revolutionized its automotive aftermarket business, setting a new industry benchmark.
Daniel Royer, Senior Vice President of the Automotive Division at Exide Technologies, said: “This latest innovation from Exide further illustrates our commitment to customer excellence. We not only offer best-in-class Automotive batteries with a strong OE pedigree, but we also continuously strive to enhance our added-value offerings to the aftermarket while simplifying battery selection for customers and end-users.”
Going forward, Exide will implement the new label design with technology-based identification across the rest of its market-leading Automotive battery ranges, including Commercial Vehicle, Marine & Leisure, and Motorbike & Sport batteries.
REIMAGINING HYDRAULIC FLUID FOR A GREENER FUTURE
KYB HAS UNVEILED A BRAND NEW TRULY ENVIRONMENTALLY
FRIENDLY HYDRAULIC FLUID CALLED SUSTAINALUBTM
Shock absorbers play an important role in stabilising the movement of a car by using hydraulic pressure and friction. Hydraulic oil supports this operation. Without this oil, the shock absorber cannot perform efficiently. Conventional hydraulic fluids main components are base oils derived from petroleum- a fossil fuel. The newly developed SustainaLubTM aims to be a truly environmentally friendly shock absorber hydraulic fluid that eliminates the environmental risks associated with petroleum. SustainaLubTM is a sustainable product that is both carbon neutral and recyclable. This in-house design of a hydraulic fluid recipe is unique to a manufacturer specialising in shock absorbers. Full release to the market is planned for 2026.
This new fluid contributes to carbon neutrality by switching from petroleum derived base oil to naturally derived base oil. It absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere during cultivation of the plants used for the base oil raw materials, also reducing CO2 emissions during transportation. The base oil and additive formulation is biodegradable and recyclable, reducing environmental issues in the long term. Replacing
petroleum based oil in KYB shock absorbers with this new hydraulic fluid will save up to 15.6 million litres of oil per year.
As a specialised global manufacturer of hydraulic equipment, KYB has long been involved in maintaining and improving the safety and comfort of automobiles. Using that experience, we are striving to achieve environmental balance without compromising performance or reliability. KYB has been extensively testing SustainaLubTM with OE partners, at their state-of-the-art testing centre in Japan and on the race track in the All Japan Rally Championship. This testing showed that SustainaLubTM improved manoeuvrability and stability and also improved the feel of the product.
KYB plans to ultimately apply this technology to all hydraulic products involved in realising a sustainable mobility society. As a specialised manufacturer of hydraulic equipment, KYB has long been working to improve the ride comfort and handling stability of automobiles. Based on this experience, KYB will continue to pursue advances in performance and reliability while keeping environmental impact at the forefront of development.
MORE RELIABLE VEHICLES THROUGH INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS AND PROCESSES
One might say that Aftermarket does not show innovation and the “real” innovations in the automotive market happen on the OE side. Indeed, game-changing technologies have been implemented by Original Equipment Manufacturers in the past decades. Nevertheless, also the aftermarket is full of innovation and has huge potential for creative engineering.
In SKF we see three focus areas for Innovation in the Aftermarket:
1. Design better products
Even though using robust engineering processes, not every vehicle product is robust enough to last the expected service life. Every garage can tell you examples of these “problem products”, means OE prod-
ucts that fail more often than expected and need to be improved. This is an excellent opportunity for aftermarket engineers to develop products even better than OE.
2. Make the job of the garage easier
Beyond SKF single product we have a strong focus also on the accessories needed. Missing bolts, snap rings, seals or
MORE RELIABLE VEHICLES THROUGH INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS AND PROCESSES
gaskets make the assembly more difficult and increase the time and cost of repair. SKF kits contain all the accessories needed to speed up the repair. Also, our mounting and dismounting tool assortment is constantly increasing.
3. Complete revision solution
To increase vehicle´s longevity and performance it is recommended to make complete system revisions after a certain mileage. OE recommend this for instance for transmissions or timing systems. Considering the high labor time for the repair, it is in many cases, also commercially useful to do a complete revision, instead of fixing the failed part only.
SKF Masterkit
The SKF Masterkit is a good example for such complete revision solution kit. It contains all components for timing and auxiliary systems in one box. Mechanics can perform a complete system repair, reducing the customer risk of a second short term repair, while also providing a reliable and safe solution with OEM performance components.
SKF Masterkit, first aftermarket solution to OE recommendation for a full system repair.
Complete system supplier
SOLERA’S SOLUTIONS FOR A SMARTER, GREENER AFTERMARKET
SOLERA - ACCELERATING AUTOMOTIVE INTELLIGENCE
Solera is a provider of digital solutions that leverage ground-breaking technology such as AI and Visual Intelligence to support the entire vehicle lifecycle.
Vehicle lifecycle management is the process of overseeing and optimizing every stage of a vehicle’s life — from the moment it is manufactured, through its use, maintenance, resale, and ultimately, its end-of-life and recycling
Its benefits include cost minimisation, process efficiencies, and greater environmental sustainability. With over 280,000 customers in 120 countries supported by over 7,000 employees, Solera is unique as a global force propelling the automotive sector to new heights offering high value solutions, backed by more than 5 petabytes of data at 5 Sigma level. Solera’s services connect and optimize every phase of the vehicle’s lifecycle, allowing customers to make smarter decisions.
Our customers include:
• Manufacturers
• Insurers
• Service, repair and maintenance workshops
• Body repair workshops
• Assessors
• Dealerships
• Parts distributors
• Salvage yards
• Vehicle fleet operators
• Leasing companies
• Finance houses
• 3rd party data providers
• Consumers
At Solera, our vision is to transform the way the world manages the vehicle lifecycle, making processes more intelligent, efficient, and effective, whilst reducing cost and environmental impact. We are not just responding to industry changes, we are pushing the envelope for our customers, propelling the industry forward with every innovation and every solution we deliver.
This is Solera’s global promise for the automotive and fleet sectors realized. Solera is at the forefront of addressing macro-global challenges such as technical data & information for ever complex repair procedures, accurate estimation solutions which provide the most environmentally sustainable body-repair processes, dynamic vehicle valuation for the growing leased vehicle fleets and much more.
How do you see the future of the automotive aftermarket in a short term, in a long term in a challenged context (electrification, AI,…)?
At Solera, we see both short-term disruption and long-term transformation shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket. In the short term, the aftermarket faces growing complexity as the vehicle parc becomes increasingly diverse. The rise of electric vehicles (EVs), advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and connected technologies demands new tools, training, and data-driven insights. Workshops are under pressure to adapt quickly, navigating new diagnostic procedures, software-based repairs, and changing service intervals. AI and automation are already beginning to ease this burden by streamlining workflows, improving parts identification, and delivering real-time technical guidance.
Providing services to the growing vehicle fleets will become more and more cognitive, all designed to increase the productivity in an age where compliance, fuel, driver and maintenance costs are all going up at unprecedented levels.
In the long term, we anticipate a fundamental shift toward a more predictive, connected, and customer-centric aftermarket ecosystem. Electrification, autonomous mobility, and software-defined vehicles will redefine maintenance models.
The role of AI will expand from efficiency gains to deeper decision-making—powering predictive maintenance, dynamic pricing, and even self-diagnosing vehicles. At the same time, sustainability will become a key driver, pushing the industry toward greener repair methods, circular economy models, and energy-efficient operations.
Despite the challenges, we believe the aftermarket is entering a period of opportunity. Those who invest in digital transformation and data intelligence today will be best positioned to thrive tomorrow. At Solera, we’re committed to enabling that future by equipping workshops, insurers, and the broader ecosystem with the insights and innovation they need to stay ahead.
What are you expecting from N! community? What are your reasons to be proud to join NEXUS? Solera is the global data champion across the entire vehicle lifecycle in the N! community—the go-to digital technologies partner for every Nexus member. Our mission is to harness global vehicle data and digital capabilities to drive profitable growth into the future.
When we get the opportunity to talk with Gael & Theirry, their vision to embrace innovative technologies in the aftermarket for distributors, workshops and suppliers, is palpable. There’s no doubt they want to
navigate the N! Community through the digital technologies maze, ensuring the journey is fruitful and not a counterproductive experience. They see the benefits of Solera joining the N! Community, to provide access to digital solutions that will make delivery fleets more productive, technical information to fill technicians’ knowledge gaps and innovative digital solutions for new revenue streams.
What are you willing to bring to N! Community?
As the world’s leading vehicle data powerhouse, Solera empowers the N! Community with end-to-end vehicle lifecycle intelligence. We offer data, digital services and AI-powered workflows across claims, repair, parts sourcing, re-marketing and fleet management. As ageing fleets, higher mileage, varied ownership and emerging technologies reshape the aftermarket, Solera’s world-scale platform delivers actionable insights and predictive solutions to drive profitable growth and operational resilience.
How is innovation part of your daily business? And any question you would like to add of course. Innovation powers Solera every second. We operate state-of-the-art data infrastructure worldwide and maintain strategic Centres of Excellence on three continents. Our bestin-class technology team combines cloud and on-premise expertise to build digital
Sebastien Recors, Vice President Autodate and Jog Lall, Business Development Director Fleet Solutions
solutions delivering end-to-end value—from vehicle specifications and valuations to yard management at life’s end.
Further innovation isn’t just part of our daily business but also our client’s business, because with Solera’s digital solutions our customers are able to re-engineer their business procedures and processes to deliver efficiencies and productivity gains. Take our RNA route optimisation software, which can deliver productivity gains of at least 20% within the first 12 months for a distributor’s logistics operation.
ONLINE AND FACE TO FACE TRAINING FOR WORKSHOPS
TRAIN YOUR NETWORK TO DIAGNOSE EFFICIENTLY AND ACCURATELY
In July 2024, Valeo introduced an innovative training program, Tech Academy, to address the changing needs of the industry. Tech Academy offers both online and in-person learning formats.
An Innovative Training Program
The automotive industry faces a significant skills gap, with many mechanics lacking the expertise to service Electrified Vehicles (50%) and Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) (62%). Valeo is willing to address this by expanding its role beyond parts supplier to actively support Aftermarket services.
Valeo Tech Academy offers extensive training on all automotive systems and brands. Marlène Carrias-Iked, Vice-President Strategic Marketing, Digital and Innovation for Valeo Service says: “Through Valeo Tech Academy, we provide customized training that equips mechanics to confidently diagnose, maintain, repair and calibrate not just Electrified Vehicles and ADAS, but also
the latest conventional technologies like DMF, DDC, DWC, and DSG gearboxes.”
State-of-the-Art Digital Experience
Valeo Tech Academy offers comprehensive digital training, including 45 hours on maintenance and repair for current automotive technologies, 50 hours on Electric and Hybrid Vehicles (covering safety, diagnostics, and troubleshooting), and 25 hours on Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS).
Sessions are structured as short modules (5 to 30 minutes), allowing for flexible learning at any time. The program incorporates pre- and post-assessments to ensure measurable skill development. The digital learning experience is enhanced
with immersive interactive content and high-quality visuals, designed to make the training dynamic, engaging, and effective.
Face to Face Sessions Using Simulators
ONLINE AND FACE TO FACE TRAINING FOR WORKSHOPS
Valeo Tech Academy also offers Face-toFace sessions on ADAS and Electrified Vehicles. These innovative sessions use advanced simulators allowing participants to engage in over 150 realistic repair scenarios, providing broader practical experience across various makes and models, enhancing their knowledge and skills. Three levels of Electrified Vehicle training (Essentials, Intermediate, Advanced) utilize simulators and real tools like calibration equipment, covering safety, components, and advanced diagnostics across all Electrified Vehicle architectures. This training aims at improving diagnostic speed and accuracy, addressing a common cause of workshop inefficiency, leading to increased productivity and customer satisfaction.
Certifications & Subsidies
Valeo Tech Academy is a ‘Certified Training Organization’, with courses and trainers certified by the IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry), which establishes global standards for automotive expertise. This ensures the highest standards in professional education and access to public funding.
Visit valeo-techacademy.com to explore and enroll in our training programs!
Interview with Philippe Colpron, Head of ZF Aftermarket
MAXIMIZING MOBILITY UPTIME
How is the automotive aftermarket shaping — and being shaped by — the evolving landscape of mobility today and into the future? Mobility has developed into a core value for our society. It provides us with the freedom to go where we want, when we need, have food available at our stores and goods being delivered at our doorstep. And the Aftermarket industry is an essential pillar in enabling Uptime for mobility.
With society’s growing expectations and the fast introduction of new technologies, the role of the Aftermarket will have to evolve from what used to sometimes be reactive or opportunistic to a well-knit ecosystem enabling seamless mobility. At ZF Aftermarket, we stand for Maximizing Mobility Uptime, supporting our customers - Fleets, Workshops and Distributors - in their journey to meet their customers’ expectations and the mobility of society at large.
Enabling our distributors to ship any item, anywhere, anytime through our best-inclass logistics supported by ZF Aftermarket’s unique breadth and depth of product range.
Enabling workshops with access and knowhow to the latest technologies and software to perform quick and safe repairs, helping them grow their business through our extensive technical support, training, advanced diagnostics solutions and online data access.
Enabling fleet operators to perform their timely deliveries with efficient asset utilization and lower operational costs through ZF Aftermarket’s professional support network, technology and connected data services.
At ZF Aftermarket, we are committed to evolving the industry into a proactive and integrated ecosystem that maximizes mobility uptime.
With digital transformation accelerating, how pivotal is the role of data and how is it reshaping the opportunities within the automotive aftermarket? Additionally, we know that there is an increasing use of software in vehicles today. So how do these trends affect the aftermarket industry at large? Data is integral to the way the Aftermarket operates, and it plays a crucial role across the entire value chain.
The use of data can transform how we enable our customer’s success – to help keep vehicles on the roads so goods and people can keep moving. At a start, this can be linked to consumer experience by ensuring easy cataloguing and the simplification of interfaces, and moving forward via self-service online portals and connected repair services. At ZF Aftermarket, we are developing holistic online journeys that support our customers’ varying needs, underpinned by a strong product portfolio and best-inclass logistics to ensure they get the goods on time and at the right place.
As digitization and the impact of software in the vehicle increases, we see many business opportunities arising, but we should also be aware of the risks for the economy of our industry, if it is not well anticipated. The benefits of software-defined vehicles
are vast, from improving driver experience to enabling autonomous mobility, but they also come with important considerations such as cybersecurity and democratized vehicle repairability. We must, therefore, prepare the industry with the right solutions to first enable them to continue operating successfully, but then unlock the possibility that connected vehicles and predictive intelligence allow for improved maintenance services and a journey towards seamless mobility. A multitude of players bring their own contribution in the value chain of enabling Mobility Uptime, having their own data touchpoints. While everyone has a role to play, there are currently many inefficiencies in the way we operate which results in unnecessary costs. Consequently, we have a possible route to create further value by improving the way we communicate and collaborate as an integrated network. We can imagine a future where vehicle on-board software will interact through telematics with maintenance services to keep vehicles on the road, with workshops to anticipate their operations and even reaching distributors to predict their inventory to ensure seamless logistics and distribution. But this future will not happen if we don’t actively work on it, together.
ZF Aftermarket’s objective is to help our customers to develop a strong business in
the future Mobility Uptime ecosystem, while continuing to succeed in today’s business environment. This fuels our commitment to consistently expand our range of digital solutions for workshop and for fleets, supported with our extensive training and workshop concept portfolio to bring the right level of expertise into the market so our customers and partners are equipped to be competitive while keeping the highest level of satisfaction for our end-users.
How can innovations in the field of data further enable this vision of Maximizing Uptime that you mentioned before?
As mentioned earlier, growing digitization is an essential part of our industry and it will keep growing in importance. At ZF Aftermarket we are committed to appropriately leveraging Data and AI to create differentiated products and services for our customers to drive efficiency, quality and value.
For distributors, we are committed to delivering strong product coverage and availability utilizing our network of regionalized distribution footprint. Our goal is to provide best-in-class logistic capabilities based on advanced IT infrastructure to fuel further collaborative improvements.
And when it comes to repair and maintenance services, we aim to ensure the best
support for workshops through our trainings and technical assistance and digital solutions. For example, ZF [pro]Diagnostics provides the ability for mechanics to handle the challenges of modern vehicle architectures, while ZF [pro]Manager is a workshop communication hub helping workshops to raise their service levels towards their own customer base, delivering higher satisfaction and loyalty through fast, transparent, and digitized customer communication.
We also continue to drive unique value for our fleet customers through our leading service network and field technical support. As a trusted partner, we deliver leading connectivity solutions such as ZF Bus Connect, our best-in-class telematics solution for city buses that helps bus operators, manufacturers, and workshops maximize vehicle uptime, reduce costs and enhance safety using connectivity, data analytics, and exclusive insights into ZF components.
Within our Reman business AI plays a crucial role particularly in core sorting and variant recognition. This is especially important when incoming cores (used parts) lack nameplates or have many similar variants, making it difficult for humans to identify them. To address this, we use image processing in the core sorting process to support decision-making and ensure an error-free evaluation. Another application
of AI is in component analysis after core disassembly. Here, AI helps assess component quality and verify the correct variants. IT tools assist in determining whether a component meets the required quality standards and can be reused in the reassembly process.
And in China, we are utilizing AI support for maintenance tasks e.g. with an AI-guided maintenance service for fleets and mechanics or the use of AI to offer workshops AI-guided repair support.
These are some examples where we leverage technology to help drive value for our customers and how data can create huge opportunities in the Aftermarket.
Of all the emerging technologies and disruptive forces affecting the industry, which do you believe will have the greatest impact? The most important aspect is not just technology. We also need to look at how we evolve our business partnerships in relation to the technology transformation - growth in software-defined-vehicles and the overall increase of data sharing use-cases, as previously mentioned. It is about how we, as an industry, strengthen our partnerships to meet our challenges head on and reach the optimum goal of a connected and efficient Aftermarket value chain.
Today the Aftermarket works mostly in a linear way, from parts makers to distributors to workshops and fleets, etc. Each of us manages tons of data, but the real improvement will come once we become a much more interconnected ecosystem. For instance, we know that fleets want to maximize their vehicle utilization, while the mechanics and workshops face the dual challenge of not only repairing the vehicles of tomorrow but also overcoming their own unique obstacles such as labor shortage. For their businesses, it comes to maximizing revenue with a limited number of vehicles, drivers, mechanics, space and so on. There are also challenges at distributor level in the complex logistics planning for a diversity of part numbers that will just keep rising given the long co-existence of different vehicle technology platforms. Therefore, the more we are integrated in our collaboration, the greater the improvement to the overall Aftermarket ecosystem will be.
In addition, the potential of data can spread exponentially based on how it is leveraged across our teams, ecosystems and customer partnerships – requiring us to cut through some historic silos. It necessitates that we develop talents and nurture team interactions that seamlessly blend digital expertise and extensive, deep industry experience. Accurately leveraging Data and AI internally will enable our businesses to reduce administrative burden, derive higher quality and increase efficiency, translating into greater value for our customers.
The best use of data will not come when we each have our own individual activities that are disconnected from each-other and this is where we need to reimagine the way we partner and collaborate with each other.
But we’re all in the same boat in this industry - so if technology isn’t the issue, what’s making alignment so difficult?
It starts by aligning on a shared view of the end goal and working and evolving together. Those who synchronize their changes will win. Every decision we make today shapes our future, so we need to think of our collaboration as a collective and how we reward the innovation and ingenuity that is needed to build the future of Aftermarket.
Same product, same part number and same quality commitment since 1930!
Hitachi Astemo, a leader in mobility solutions, is embarking on an exciting new chapter as it transitions to the brand name Astemo. This change marks a significant step in our commitment to advancing the future of mobility through innovative and sustainable technologies.
With a dedicated workforce of 80,000 employees and *139 manufacturing and R&D facilities worldwide, Astemo is at the forefront of developing cuttingedge solutions that address the evolving demands of transportation.
The name Astemo, derived from Advanced Sustainable Technologies for Mobility, reflects our core mission: to drive the future of mobility through environmentally responsible practices and advanced technology. As we transition from Hitachi Astemo to Astemo, our focus remains on delivering state-ofthe-art products and solutions that enhance vehicle performance while prioritizing sustainability.
Astemo Aftermarket: Quality You Can Trust
In the EMEA region, our aftermarket division, now operating under Astemo Aftermarket continues to provide an extensive portfolio of over 5,000 Stock Keeping Units (SKUs).
This comprehensive range includes market-leading products in electronics, suspension, fuel supply, steering, engine management, and sensors, all distributed directly from Germany to meet the growing demand for high-quality mobility components.
Astemo Aftermarket is also committed to delivering excellence through itsour robust portfolio of established brands, including ASTEMO, HÜCO, and TOKICO, alongside our trusted Motorbike Spare Parts Brands brands NISSIN, SHOWA, and KEIHIN. This diverse offering empowers us to provide innovative solutions for both passenger car as well as motorcycle applications.
As we move forward as Astemo, our commitment to sustainability remains unwavering. We are actively enhancing the environmental performance of our products, reducing our carbon footprint, and contributing to the global transition towards clean energy. Through ongoing investment in research and development, Astemo is setting new benchmarks in the mobility sector, striving to seamlessly integrate advanced technologies with principles of sustainability and improved quality of life.
Join us as we embrace this new era as Astemo, where our focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric solutions will continue to drive the future of mobility.
* as of August 2023
Bosch fuel filters – because quality matters
Fuel filters developed and manufactured in Aranjuez, Spain, carry out a series of strict original-equipment examinations
September 2024
Connecting the plastic filter lid with a closed pleated-star by infrared welding
Modern gasoline direct injection systems work with high fuel pressures. Depending on the system, this can be up to 350 bar. Since contaminants can impair or interrupt the fuel supply, it is important to monitor the fuel specifically to keep it clean. This is ensured by a fuel filter integrated in the fuel supply module. This cleans the fuel over the entire lifespan of the vehicle and removes reliably finest particles. Bosch meets these high requirements and ensures the performance of the filters through various tests. Numerous vehicle manufacturers use Bosch fuel supply modules with built-in fuel filters as original equipment.
Compliance with manufacturer specifications
Vehicle manufacturers have different
requirements. However, the same applies to all of them: the fuel filters integrated into the fuel supply module must not be designed as wearing parts but as “lifetime products”. At an interval of, for example, 80,000 km, a “normal” filter has absorbed so many particles that it should be changed. A “lifetime filter”, which always has to work within the specified differential-pressure range, absorbs around three times that amount over the vehicle‘s lifetime. Various laboratory tests ensure that the filters can achieve this. Among other things, the filtration performance and the dust retention capacity are tested. The test conditions are precisely defined and can be reproduced at any time. This applies, for example, to the test liquids used and the ambient
temperature. The test particles used are Arizona test dust, which corresponds in composition and fineness to the test standards SAE J726 or ISO 12103-1.
High resilience of the filter media
Cellulose-based filter papers are used as the basis for filter production. These media are impregnated with a special resin that makes them particularly mechanically, thermally and chemically resilient. Depending on the application, an additional layer of fine plastic fibers is applied in a complex process. This enables even higher separation levels. When processing the filters, the quality standards of the original equipment are very high.
The fuel supply module is an integrated in-tank unit and contains all the components to deliver fuel to the engine.
The filters must be sealed on the inside so that no unfiltered fuel can get into the injection system. Therefore, special attention is paid to the stable connection of the end folds of the filter medium during production. In addition, the connection between the filter element and the end caps ensures internal tightness and stability of the filter. To create these connections, special welding processes are used.
Large production quantities and extensive controls
Bosch in Aranjuez produces over 14 million filters per year. These include high runners but also many special references that are produced in smaller quantities. As part of product and process development, a design and process FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) is carried out. Potential problems or errors are identified and corrected – before any impact on the system or process occurs. Quality tests are defined and carried out on this basis.
These include, for example, 100 % height control or automatic inspection of the filter media with vision cameras.
Reliability test plan for all filter families
Filtration performance, mechanical resilience, cleanliness, aging and many other properties are assessed as part of reliability tests. As with the market launch of new products, these are carried out according to reliability test plans based on the technical specifications provided by the customer in PPM (parts per million).
Testing of the raw material
Almost all of the plastic parts required to assemble the filters are manufactured in-house. This means there is transparency between the various batches and the corresponding tests carried out in the quality laboratories. During the design phase, the development department defines the most suitable material based on the specifications. Externally purchased filter media are internally tested for quality by the purchasing department – for example by measuring the maximum pore size according to DIN ISO 2942 – for each batch before the production is released.
High quality filter media from Aranjuez also for diesel engines
filter:
Denoxtronic filters clean the AdBlue®, which may contain particles that can clog or damage the injector valve. This protects the injection valve and ensures that the AdBlue® is dosed precisely. The right filter medium is crucial for the optimal function of the Denoxtronic filter.
Denoxtronic
The power of paper
Measurement of the maximum pore size (DIN ISO 2942)
Denoxtronic filter production line
Denoxtronic filter with special tool
Front Pipes & Flexibles
Catalytic Converters & Diesel Particulate Filters
The absolute number 1 in quality
Always premium quality products with BOSAL
Drive Towards Sustainability with BOSAL
Silencers
Silencers
Mounting and Repair Parts
A t B o s a l , w e a r e c o m m i t t e d t o p r o v i d i n g
i n n o v a t i v e s o l u t i o n s t h a t n o t o n l y m e e t y o u r n e e d s b u t a l s o c o n t r i b u t e t o a m o r e
s u s t a i n a b l e f u t u r e A l o n g s i d e o u r h i g h - q u a l i t y
m o u n t i n g m a t e r i a l s , w e a r e p r o u d t o o f f e r a
s p e c i a l i z e d r a n g e o f R e p a i r P a r t s d e s i g n e d t o
b r i n g s u s t a i n a b l e a n d b u d g e t - f r i e n d l y
s o l u t i o n s t o t h e a u t o m o t i v e m a r k e t
F o r c o m p l e x i s s u e s , p l e a s e c o n s u l t a n e x p e r t
t o d e t e r m i n e i f a f u l l r e p l a c e m e n t i s n e e d e d .
J o i n u s i n d r i v i n g t o w a r d s a m o r e s u s t a i n a b l e
f u t u r e , o n e r e p a i r a t a t i m e !
MIN EFFECTIVE TIMING ON THE MACHINE
90° quick connector
Enlarged tank base for increased machine performance
Dayco Heavy Duty, Innovation runs from Original Equipment to Aftermarket.
As a global leader in research, design, manufacture and distribution of essential engine drive systems and aftermarket services for truck, construction, agriculture and industrial applications we provide innovative and effective solutions to meet specific performance requirements for each customer’s needs.
New PRO kits for belt replacement in Peugeot, Citroën and Opel models
Two sets cover a wide range of models from the former PSA Group.
The PureTech engine from the PSA Group succeeded in combining the power of a 1.6-liter engine with the economy of a 1.2-liter unit. It was fitted across practically all of the group’s product range and was named Engine of the Year four times in succession between 2015 and 2018. Consequently, there are a huge number of vehicles with this engine on Europe’s roads – and they’re gradually coming into workshops to have their timing belts replaced.
Everything in one set
The PRO Kits CT1228K3PRO and CT1228K4PRO now make work easier for workshops. They provide workshop professionals with everything they need to change the timing belt on the PureTech engine: tensioner and idler pulley, various gaskets for timing cover and cylinder head cover, the crankshaft bolt and two bolts for the camshafts. And that’s not all! The V-ribbed belt (ELAST belt) for the water pump is also included.
Further kits are planned
The CT1228K3PRO and CT1228K4PRO kits have been specially designed for the turbocharged engines in this engine series. Thanks to their compromise-free quality, they come with a five-year guarantee for registered workshops. Meanwhile, Continental is already working on kits for the naturally aspirated PureTech engines.
TotalEnergies Lubrifiants launches a new innovative and more environmentally conscious range for heavy vehicles: Rubia EV3R engine oils range(1). The range is based on the 3R concept and o ers the same performance as standard Rubia engine oils
O cially approved by many heavy vehicle manufacturers, the new Rubia EV3R range, is engineered with above 50% regenerated base oils(2) and coupled with a bottle that is made from 50% recycled plastic and fully recyclable.
With Rubia EV3R, sustainably protect your engine!
Up to 25% reduced carbon footprint(3)
PRECISION IN EVERY INSTALL: ACCESS TECHNICAL DRAWINGS WITH FERODO’S QR CODE FEATURE
HOW IT WORKS (4 SIMPLE STEPS)
1. SCAN THE QR CODE ON THE CLOSING LABEL ON FERODO PACKAGING.
2. SELECT “TECHNICAL DRAWING” IN THE QR CODE MENU.
3. OPEN YOUR CAMERA AND SCAN EAN CODE.
4. INPUT VEHICLE DETAILS INCLUDING VEHICLE MAKER, MODEL, VARIANT AND ENGINE TYPE.
BENEFITS FOR WORKSHOPS AND MECHANICS
• SAVE TIME: GET THE EXACT TECHNICAL INFORMATION IN SECONDS.
• GET WHAT YOU NEED: EXPLODED VIEW OF THE PART AND TIGHTENING TORQUE VALUES
• ACCURATE INSTALLATION & PREVENT CUSTOMER RETURNS: DRAWINGS ARE CUSTOMIZED FOR EACH VEHICLE AND PART, ENSURING PROPER INSTALLATION.
• ECO-FRIENDLY: DIGITAL ACCESS HELPS REDUCE PAPER WASTE.
SCAN THE QR CODE ON THE CLOSING LABEL ON FERODO PACKAGING TODAY FOR A SEAMLESS INSTALLATION, ENSURING THE BEST PERFORMANCE OF OUR PRODUCTS.
PRECISION IN EVERY INSTALL : ACCESS TECHNICAL DRAWINGS WITH MONROE’S QR CODE FEATURE
HOW IT WORKS (4 SIMPLE STEPS)
1. SCAN THE QR CODE ON THE CLOSING LABEL ON MONROE PACKAGING.
2. SELECT “TECHNICAL DRAWING” IN THE QR CODE MENU.
3. OPEN YOUR CAMERA AND SCAN EAN CODE.
4. INPUT VEHICLE DETAILS INCLUDING VEHICLE MAKER, MODEL, VARIANT AND ENGINE TYPE.
BENEFITS FOR WORKSHOPS AND MECHANICS
• SAVE TIME: GET THE EXACT TECHNICAL INFORMATION IN SECONDS.
• GET WHAT YOU NEED: EXPLODED VIEW OF THE PART AND TIGHTENING TORQUE VALUES.
• ACCURATE INSTALLATION & PREVENT CUSTOMER RETURNS: DRAWINGS ARE CUSTOMIZED FOR EACH VEHICLE AND PART, ENSURING PROPER INSTALLATION.
• ECO-FRIENDLY: DIGITAL ACCESS HELPS REDUCE PAPER WASTE.
SCAN THE QR CODE ON THE CLOSING LABEL ON MONROE PACKAGING TODAY FOR A SEAMLESS INSTALLATION, ENSURING THE LASTING DURABILITY AND PERFORMANCE OF OUR PRODUCTS.
Innovation and original equipment expertise are the driving force behind the global success of the Elring spare parts brand. Since 1879, Elring has stood for the highest standards of safety, service, and reliability. By combining innovative strength, we ensure individual mobility: economically, e ciently, and in an environmentally friendly way.
As an automotive supplier, ElringKlinger is a reliable partner for its customers in shaping the future of mobility. Whether optimised combustion engines, high-performance hybrids or environmentally-friendly battery and fuel cell technology, ElringKlinger provides innovative solutions for all types of drive system. Our lightweighting concepts help to reduce the overall weight of vehicles, which in turn either lowers fuel consumption and CO2 emissions in the case of combustion engines or extends the range of alternative propulsion systems.
The Group continues to develop its range of gaskets for increasingly complex combustion engines, in order to meet the most exacting requirements. Solutions for thermal and acoustic shielding technology, as well as products made of the high-performance plastic PTFE – including those for industries beyond the automotive sector – round o the portfolio.
The Elring spare parts brand o ers everything from a single source: original equipment quality, functional safety and efcient, comprehensive service. This includes, for example, sales and technical training, service information, explodedview drawings for trucks and vans, monthly newsletters with topics related to engine sealing, an online gasket advisor, innovative installation videos, the training truck and much more.
Dealers, workshops and their customers around the world have had good experiences with Elring Original Products. In addition to cylinder-head and sealing systems, these include radial sha seals and valve stem seals, plastic parts, sealing compounds, screw locking devices, cylinder-head bolts and complete gasket sets for full and partial overhauls. Our broad product portfolio for electric, hybrid and combustion engines is constantly being developed – professional mechanics can rely on ‘Das Original’.
Gasket sets everything complete and ready to hand.
For professional repair work, everything has to be perfectly matched, precisely coordinated and available quickly. Elring gasket sets cover a comprehensive range for full and partial inspection of both passenger car and commercial vehicle engines, transmissions and units: in line with requirements and tailored to the relevant repair. These include full sets (S), cylinder-head sets (ES), conversion sets for crankcases (CS), water pump sets (WPS) and transmission sets (GSM). Saves time in ordering, storage and installation.
Secondary gaskets — flexible sealing systems for all situations.
Cylinder-head gaskets — solutions in any position.
As key components, cylinder-head gaskets contribute to efficient, safe and economical engine operation. Whether it‘s Metaloflex™ metal layer, metalelastomer or metal/soft material cylinder-head gaskets - the Elring range includes all types tailored to the relevant requirements: for individually powerful, economical and environmentally-friendly engines.
Elring offers the right special gaskets for a wide range of sealing tasks in the engine, transmission, exhaust system and auxiliary units: Gaskets for oil sumps, intake and exhaust manifolds, water pumps, compressors, turbochargers, transmissions and axles. The materials and design are optimally tailored to the relevant application and the specific requirements.
Sealants — Quality impresses at first glance.
Radial shaft seals and valve shaft seals.
Dynamic seals round off the product range. Elring offers radial shaft and valve shaft sealing rings, some with a sensor, in a wide range of designs, materials and dimensions. For engines, transmissions and axles - in tested quality, of course.
Wherever components need to be reliably sealed, Elring offers a comprehensive range of high-performance sealants for the professional and do-it-yourself sector that has proven itself in practise.
Plastic parts — heat-resistant lightweights.
Thanks to the tried-and-tested ElringKlinger OE expertise, the plastic parts from Elring – Das Original provide a tailored and reliable repair solution - despite their low weight, they have sufficient rigidity to distribute the sealing load evenly. The valve covers and oil sumps are supplied ready to install and therefore ensure a time-saving, repair-orientated installation.
Smarter mobility ahead: FORVIA presents new technologies
The global automotive supplier FORVIA chose the Shanghai Auto Show, which took place from 23 April to 2 May 2025, to showcase breakthrough technologies with nine world premieres and a broad portfolio of AI- and software-driven sustainable innovations, supported by their new Masterpiece Saphir.
This mid-size, low-body car segment demonstrator integrates disruptive innovations, offering affordable and attractive solutions for comfort, efficiency, and freedom on every journey. Saphir addresses key evolutions in in-car experiences with a new design approach and novel vehicle usage concepts.
Two of the nine world premieres deserve special mention: the electric fuse iConF and the ForWave7e radar from FORVIA HELLA. The former is the first intelligent, configurable electronic fuse of its kind, enabling a significant reduction in the wiring harness. It also allows an even higher level of autonomous driving and increases vehicle safety through predictive maintenance and proactive energy management.
Unlike traditional fuses, iConF, which can be integrated into HELLA ECUs or OEM devices, uses semiconductor elements to actively monitor and control power distribution in 12 V and 48 V systems, ensuring failoperational functionality critical for maintaining system availability. AI-based predictive maintenance, using artificial intelligence and digital twins, prevents failures and improves system stability. By reducing the wiring harness length and diameter by up to 30%, it enhances space usage, reduces weight, and improves efficiency.
The second innovation, the ForWave7e radar, is the latest addition to the 77 GHz radar family. ForWave7e is designed to satisfy cost-sensitive customers, delivering
premium performance without compromising quality. It excels in complex traffic environments and supports parking without ultrasonic sensors, offering design flexibility and cost optimisation. Providing comprehensive coverage, it detects pedestrians, scooters, and e-scooters, enhances safety with timely warnings, and supports accurate detection and emergency braking. Radar-assisted parking uses existing sensors for costeffective, safe manoeuvring.
Other high-performance vehicle electronics installed in the Saphir from FORVIA include the Skyline Pillar-to-Pillar display and Kids Care. Also installed: AirVision, Safe 45, and sustainable exterior lighting and interiors.
From the ocean’s depths to outer space. Millions of applications, one trusted choice.
Fit to more vehicles, increase customer satisfaction and boost your battery business.
ELPARTS I JAKOPARTS
ELECTRICS SIGNAL DEVICES I SIGNAL UNITS I RELAYS I CONTROL UNITS I SWITCHES ACTUATORS+SENSORS I LOCKING SYSTEM I VOLTAGE TRANSFORMERS I INVERTER ALTERNATORS+STARTERS I WASHING WATER PUMP I IGNITION SYSTEM
STARTER –EFFICIENT & DURABLE
Perfect fit
Exactly suitable for the respective vehicle in which the starter is installed
Energy-efficient little energy and thus protects the battery
Good starter performance functionality is guaranteed even under difficult conditions
Durable
High quality and enables long service life
HERTHUNDBUSS.COM/EN
SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE FOR DAILY USE
Not
just a brake upgrade, but a game-changer for your braking system
Environmentally Friendly & Fuel Saving ACR® (Active Caliper Release) and APR®-System (Active Pad Release) from Knorr-Bremse:
Both systems, ACR® – specially designed for Knorr-Bremse’s latest generation of SYNACT® brakes – and APR®-System – the retrofit solution for SN7 & ST7 brakes – share a common goal: reducing residual drag torque.
How does it work?
Both systems retract the brake pads from the brake disc after braking and simultaneously centering the brake caliper over the brake disc.
What is the result?
Minimizing residual drag torques reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, while also decreasing brake pad wear during operation. The result: lower particulate emissions – benefiting both fleet operators and the environment!
Benefits of ACR®- & APR®-System:
• Award-Winning Technology: Knorr-Bremse was awarded the 41st KS Energy and Environment Prize for the APR®-System as well as the Innovation Award at Automechanika Frankfurt in 2022 with the ACR®-System: This recognition underscores the company‘s innovation and contribution to reducing fuel consumption and emissions in vehicle technology.
• Upgrade with Ease: Supplied with ready-to-install brake pads and springs, the Active Pad Release (APR) and Active Caliper Release (ACR) systems enable a seamless retrofit – even when not pre-installed – saving both time and money.
• Eco-Friendly Solutions: Knorr-Bremse committed to delivering sustainable technologies for trucks, trailers, and buses –helping your fleet run efficiently while reducing environmental impact.
• Optimize Performance: Reduced brake pad wear extends lifespan and improves fuel efficiency – helping you run a more cost-effective and environmentally responsible fleet.
• Elevate Your Fleet: Choose the solution that enhances performance across your entire commercial vehicle lineup by reducing friction and maximizing efficiency.
Curious about the potential savings?
Get more information and insights about the award winning system here and calculate your cost reduction here:
SHAPING THE CHANGE TOGETHER
Sustainability x Cost Efficiency
Knorr-Bremse‘s EconX® Genuine Remanufactured brand offers remanufactured vehicle components that ensure older trucks, buses, and trailers remain safe and efficient on the road. EconX® products are as functional as new parts, meeting the same standards as original equipment products. They provide economical repairs for commercial vehicles with limited remaining service life, optimizing total cost of operation by being less expensive to construct due to the use of previously used components.
Remanufacturing is a sustainable practice, saving raw materials and energy, and reducing CO2 emissions by up to 75% compared to producing new parts. This environmental benefit is confirmed by independent audits. Safety is paramount, and Knorr-Bremse‘s extensive experience in remanufacturing of more than 10 years ensures the reliability of safety-relevant replacement parts. With over 60 years of expertise and millions of miles of testing, EconX® products offer a trustworthy solution for extending the life of commercial vehicles.
We are an Authorised Distributor of Mobil™ lubricants in UK, France, Spain and Portugal.
Delivering innovative lubricant solutions for automotive and industrial applications.
We’re proud to be the authorized licensee of Mobil Ancillaries™.
We manufacture sell, market and distribute Mobil Ancillaries™ across Europe.
Our Propietary Brand: Comma
Since 1965, supporting workshops to get the job done right, first time every time.
OEM approved product range
Over 99% vehicle parc coverage
Comma Product Finder allows you to perform quick and easy product lookups, either using VRN or Make/Model searches
“Peace of Mind” on the correct product when using commaoil.com
NGK: SPARKING PEAK PERFORMANCE
Every petrol-powered internal combustion engine relies on a spark to start, which makes Niterra’s brand NGK Ignition Parts essential for all ICE-powered vehicles and machinery. With more than 60 years of experience in producing high-performance ignition parts, NGK is trusted around the world.
The latest generation of advanced internal combustion engines, operating at extremely high temperatures, place equally extreme demands on ignition components such as spark plugs, glow plugs, ignition coils, and leads.
In response to evolving technological demands, Niterra invests extensively in research and development to ensure that ICE-powered vehicles—including cars, motorcycles, boats, powersport applications, and even power tools—are equipped with precisely the right high-performance products they require.
NGK’s iridium technology spark plugs provide an excellent example. Their fine iridium tip ensures an extended service life and a consistently stable spark, while the trivalent metal plating delivers superior anti-corrosion and anti-seizing properties.
NGK’s highly heat-resistant Iridium IX and Laser Iridium spark plugs not only improve clutch response and increase engine performance, but also ensure snappier acceleration, greater fuel efficiency, extreme durability and the kind of reliability that only NGK Ignition Parts can bring.
NGK – Just three letters ensure optimum ignition.
NRF ACQUIRES THE ALANKO TURBO BRAND
NRF enters the aftermarket Turbo business by acquiring the ALANKO GmbH brand, well known for its wide range of new and remanufactured turbo’s, supplied to the European aftermarket.
The Turbo aftermarket is showing steep growth, following increasing installation ratios due to engine downsizing. Entering the turbo segment with a brand renowned for its quality enables NRF to offer its customers a solid solution to cater for the increasing demand.
Per May this year Alanko products will be routed into the market via NRF’s supply chain, enabling NRF to supply a vast range of Turbo’s offering the highest coverage in the market straight away.
Having opened the German Turbo aftermarket by securing the right to supply matching quality, Alanko gained high brand recognition in Germany, the largest turbo aftermarket in Europe. Being the benchmark for cataloguing, service, and training, is a great start for developing the rest of Europe. The Alanko management, Ghalib Alah-Rachi, Basil Alah Rachi and Talha Alah Rachi, takes on various managerial positions at NRF, securing a successful
transition. At NRF the asset deal has been sealed by Hadia Gouider, giving Jeroen Velthuis a head starts in his assignment to introduce NRF into the turbo business.
“With this acquisition, we bring the Alanko technical knowhow and credibility in-house. Furthermore, we are excited to add one of the fastest growing aftermarket product ranges to our portfolio,” comments Frank Toebes, Managing Director of NRF.
Ghalib Alah-Rachi, Alanko General Manager, added, “we are proud to have teamed up with a large supplier like NRF. Their size, funding and customer base will fuel our growth in the European Turbo aftermarket and enable us to leverage the range we built.”
WWW.NRF.EU
Milestones in the history of the brand and its products
In April 1994
In
In 2019, OSRAM acquired the British aftermarket specialist Ring, enabling
100 years of OSRAM Automotive –100 years of innovation and commitment to safe driving
For exactly one hundred years, ams OSRAM has been at the forefront of advances in automotive lighting and continues to be a reliable partner for millions of drivers. With its clear focus on innovation, quality and partnership, the OSRAM Automotive division supports companies, workshops and retailers in particular in supplying their customers with market-leading aftermarket solutions. OSRAM Automotive will continue to improve visibility for all road users with its unique portfolio of replacement lamps and innovative high-quality products for vehicle maintenance and equipment.
The history of the OSRAM Automotive division began in 1925 when the world’s first twin-filament headlight bulb was unveiled in Berlin to a group of curious onlookers. What they witnessed that day with the launch of the BILUX® lamp was not just a brighter bulb that allowed drivers to switch between high and low beam, but a historic turning point for road safety. At the same time, it was the beginning of a unique success story in vehicle lighting that ams OSRAM has continued with commitment and a spirit of innovation ever since.
Highlights in the history of the company
The development of the BILUX® twin-filament bulb in 1925 marked the birth of automotive lighting at OSRAM (now ams OSRAM). In the 1930s, the company launched the “OSRAM-D” bulbs which offered significantly higher light output thanks to their double-coil technology. OSRAM was a pioneering force in the development of halogen technology for car headlights in the 1960s, a technology that soon became standard in automotive lighting. In the 1990s, OSRAM succeeded in heralding in a new era in headlight design by co-developing the D1 xenon and the H7 halogen lamps. The technical possibilities of these lamps suddenly unleashed an almost inexhaustible potential for further innovation. It was during this period that OSRAM rose to become the global leader in automotive lighting. The H7 is still one of the most popular and highest-selling products in the company’s portfolio.
In 2007, OSRAM Automotive launched the first NIGHT BREAKER® models, a series of high-performance halogen lamps tailored for the first time to the differing needs of drivers. Customers could now choose a lamp to fit their lifestyle, with the particular emphasis on brightness, style, durability or cost.
The NIGHT BREAKER® LED family: a revolution in the aftermarket
In 2020, OSRAM Automotive, in close cooperation with the German TÜV and the Federal Motor Vehicle and Transport Authority, succeeded in achieving what had previously been thought impossible, namely producing the first LED retrofit lamp to be approved for use on public roads. The NIGHT BREAKER® LED has now gone on to conquer the aftermarket.
By the end of 2023, the product range had been expanded to include the NIGHT BREAKER® LED H1 and H4, so that classic cars and motorhomes could now also be retrofitted. LED retrofitting for motorcycles has also been possible since 2024. At the same time, OSRAM Automotive launched the TRUCKSTAR® LED, which had been specially developed for the truck segment. In total, the NIGHT BREAKER® LED range now comprises four product families and eight lamp types. It covers over 1000 vehicle models and has been approved in 28 countries.
More than light: successful market entry in the vehicle maintenance and equipment sector OSRAM Automotive’s commitment to better visibility does not stop at lighting. Innovative products such as the LEDriving® auxiliary and working lights and the LED warning and safety lights are rightly regarded as groundbreaking. In 2019, the global market leader in retrofit lamps acquired the British aftermarket specialist RING. This meant that OSRAM Automotive could expand its portfolio to include battery and tire maintenance equipment, dashcams, and more.
OSRAM BILUX® Lamp
OSRAM NIGHT BREAKER® family
Xperion 6100
Under-bonnet Light
Corded and cordless powerful LED Under-bonnet light
Mains- or battery-powered, the Philips Xperion 6100 Under-bonnet LED lamp offers a seamlessly dimmable beam of up to 2400 lumens, and a telescopic mount extending up to 2.1 meters on both sides, ideal for working on cars, vans and trucks.
www.airspringreplacement.com
Professional+ Brake Pads:
Launching Soon to Power the LCV Market
In today’s fast-paced logistics landscape, light commercial vehicles (LCVs) are the backbone of business. From parcel deliveries to passenger transport, they carry the weight of modern commerce. Downtime is costly. Performance is non-negotiable. That’s why Delphi developed Professional+ brake pads tailored to the unique demands of LCVs – arriving to market shortly
Engineered for Endurance
Unlike passenger cars or full-size trucks, LCVs operate in a demanding middle ground. They may not boast high horsepower, but they shoulder heavy loads and face relentless stop-start city driving. Professional+ is specifically engineered to handle this.
Crafted with a bespoke heavy-duty friction material, Professional+ brake pads deliver up to 65% more durability than conventional options. That translates into fewer replacements, less time in the workshop, and a lower total cost of ownership for fleet operators and service providers alike. To ensure Professional+ could meet the grind of daily van use, we validated its performance under pressure - on vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, simulating real-life usage scenarios.
What sets these pads apart isn’t just the friction material. Every set includes high-quality grease and shims – even when the OE don’t. This means reduced vibration and noise during use, straight from the box.
Engineered with Purpose, Designed with Style
Delphi’s Professional+ brake pads are more than just high-spec internally - they look the part too. With a distinctive blue backplate, sleek silver-finish shim, striking packaging that references the Masters of Motion identity, and messaging that speaks directly to technicians, Professional+ stands out both on the shelf and on the vehicle.
Delivers up to +65% Durability
Shim included for noise comfort
Longer life = Less waste
Designed for Light Commercial Vehicles
Grease included for easy installation
Benefits Across the Board
Whether you’re managing a fleet, running a workshop, or supplying high-volume accounts, Professional+ delivers tangible values:
• Fleet operators gain longer service intervals, increased uptime, and more time on the road
• Workshops enjoy easier installs and greater customer satisfaction
• Distributors benefit from a premium product, a strong competitive edge, and new business opportunities
Sustainability through longevity: fewer pad changes mean fewer emissions, less material waste, and lower environmental impact from transport and manufacturing. Combined with enhanced durability, Professional+ contributes to a lower CO₂ footprint - benefiting both the business and the environment.
Market coverage that counts: launching this year, Professional+ will offer coverage for around 70% of Europe’s LCVs, with 58 SKUs tailored to over 20 million vehicles. From the Ford Transit and Volkswagen Transporter to the Fiat Ducato and Iveco Daily, Professional+ is engineered to meet the needs of Europe’s hardest-working vans.
The right fit for every fleet: while Professional+ is the premium solution for high-demand applications, Delphi also offers a conventional premium range - ensuring customers have the flexibility to choose based on use case and budget.
Choose Professional+
When uptime matters and every stop counts, Professional+ delivers. It’s a brake pad built for endurance, engineered for commercial realities, and trusted by professionals who move the worldone van at a time.
Driving Innovation in the IAM
As the independent automotive aftermarket (IAM) undergoes significant transformation, the role of data and artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly central to its evolution. TecAlliance is at the forefront of this shift, and with the recent appointment of Marina Ribke as Chief Data and Technology O cer (CDTO), the company is deepening its commitment to shaping the industry through data-driven innovation.
Ribke brings a strategic, forward-thinking approach to the role—one that is grounded in real-world industry needs and the potential of emerging technologies. “Digital transformation isn’t something that happens in isolation,” she explains. “It needs to reflect the challenges and priorities of the workshops, service providers, and manufacturers we serve.”
Navigating a Rapidly Changing Market
The pace of change in the global aftermarket is accelerating, driven by trends such as electrification, connectivity, and shifting consumer expectations. “Markets like China are leading the way with incredible speed and creativity,” Ribke notes. “To stay competitive, we need to foster both optimisation and innovation—strengthening our legacy systems while also building the infrastructure for disruption.” This dual approach is essential for companies navigating a sector where stability and agility must coexist.
Collaboration as a Catalyst
Collaboration is the key to unlocking industry-wide innovation. TecAlliance sees a collaborative mindset as vital to creating a more open, e cient, and resilient aftermarket ecosystem.
“No single company can address the complexity of today’s challenges alone,” Ribke states. “We’re committed to working across the entire value chain—workshops, parts manufacturers, and IT providers—to establish common data standards and build trusted partnerships.”
Harnessing the Power of AI
Artificial intelligence stands out as one of the most promising—and most disruptive—technologies in the aftermarket space. From automated diagnostics to predictive maintenance and intelligent supply chains, AI o ers transformative potential. But Ribke is clear-eyed about its limitations.
“AI is only as good as the data behind it,” she emphasises. “We need to manage that data responsibly, ensuring it’s high-quality, secure, and used in ways that support real decision-making on the workshop floor. It’s not just about automation—it’s about augmenting human expertise.”
Further insights into Marina Ribke’s perspective on data and AI in the aftermarket are available at tec.al/news
SETTING THE STANDARD
Innovative wheel bearing design
The constant further development in vehicle manufacturing, in particular towards electromobility, leads to the evolution of various components. As a long-standing partner to the automotive industry, Schaeffler and its FAG brand have been driving innovations for more than 135 years – especially in the field of wheel bearings.
SCHAEFFLER TRIFINITY®: LATEST TECHNOLOGY ON WHEEL BEARINGS
In general, electric vehicles have a higher weight than comparable combustion models. In addition, e-cars transmit significantly higher torque than conventional drive variants. Wheel bearings, in particular, have to meet these increased requirements and withstand those higher loads.
Schaeffler is therefore launching a new ball bearing technology that has been created for these applications and is once again setting the industry standard: the TriFinity® wheel bearing.
THREE ROWS OF BALLS FOR BEST PERFORMANCE
Compared to conventional wheel bearings with two rows of balls, the TriFinity® wheel bearing allows more axle load to be transmitted with a significantly higher service life and rigidity – while keeping the exact outer dimensions. The TriFinity® wheel bearing can be used for both driven and non-driven wheels. The high friction reduction of up to -34% reduces power consumption and thus enables a gain in range. Hightech products offer a wide range of benefits The Schaeffler TriFinity® wheel bearing also combines a number of other Schaeffler innovations that have a beneficial effect on driving dynamics, steering behavior and service life.
SCHAEFFLER INNOVATIONS:
3-ROW ANGULAR CONTACT BALL BEARING with optimized dimensions CAGE with improved design
HIGH-PERFORMANCE GREASE fully synthetic grease with outstanding false brinelling protection
SEALING SYSTEM
low friction torque sealing with enhanced design
FACE SPLINE DESIGN
backlash-free connection to the axis with innovative torque transmission
SEALING LIP to protect the face splines from dirt and corrosion
FAG WHEELSET
Innovative bearing solutions play a central role in sustainable mobility, which is why Schaeffler engineers are working tirelessly on new technologies of the future, both in series production and in the mobility eco-system. The TriFinity® wheel bearing will thus also find its use in the independent mobility eco-system in due course – including necessary accessories, as part of the complete FAG WheelSet repair solution
The Modern Choice for European Vehicle Repair
SWAG delivers high-quality OE-matching parts that keep European vehicles performing at their best. Whether your customers are diagnosing tricky issues, tackling complex repairs, or simply getting cars back on the road, SWAG equips both professionals and car enthusiasts with trustworthy solutions that meet the highest repair standards.
Your Benefits
Quality – OE – matching and tested quality is the driving force behind our cutting-edge, simplified range
Wide Coverage – 25,000 replacement parts, perfectly structured in five streamlined product groups, offering endless repair possibilities
Tech-Mastery – Engineered by experts for professionals and the tech-savvy
YOUR WAY. YOUR CHOICE.
Show Your SWAG with:
Steering, Suspension & NVH
Engine Timing, Electrics & Sensors
Braking, Wheel Bearings, Hubs & Fastenings
Lubrication & Cooling
SWAG EXTRA
// YOUR VERY OWN SPARE PARTS CATALOG
B2B e-commerce platform modular and customizable perfectly fitting your needs wholesale and workshop technical data integration automate work processes precise spare parts identification
FAST SUITE is our NEXT module line that bundles all TOPMOTIVE Fast products in one package:
All these functions ensure a complete, transparent and digital workflow within independent workshops. This optimizes processes and significantly increases efficiency. At the same time, cardrivers are involved in a transparent and uncomplicated way. As well as strengthening communication, this also improves customer loyalty.
SOLUTIONS FOR GLOBAL MARKETS
ALWAYS OE QUALITY ALWAYS WALKER PRODUCTS
• Engineered & Tested in the USA – Precisely manufactured for OE performance
• Built to Exact OE Specs – Guaranteed fit, form, and function
• Global Coverage, OE Quality – Extensive applications for all markets
CHANGZHOU, CHINA
BIRMINGHAM,
WAI NEW PART NUMBER LAUNCH EXPANDS COVERAGE FOR OVER 35 MILLION VEHICLES
Miramar, FL – May 05, 2025 – WAI, a premier leading parts manufacturer in the Automotive, Heavy-Duty, Agricultural, Industrial, and Power Sports aftermarket, is proud to announce the release of 87 new part numbers now available to our valued customers. The newly introduced parts include alternators, brake calipers, starters and wiper motors, offering coverage for over 35 million VIO. Coverage across these product lines includes a broad range of new and popular makes and models, including the 2018–2023 Toyota Camry, Corolla, and RAV4 (Alternator), and the 2020-2023 Jeep Gladiator & Wrangler (Alternator), 2009-2024 Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500/4500/5500 (Wiper Motor) all of which are currently in stock and ready for immediate shipment.
WAI’s commitment to a first-to-market strategy ensures our customers can rely on us for the latest, high-quality solutions that meet the evolving needs of the automotive aftermarket.
About WAI
“At WAI, we’re proud to introduce our latest product launch, reinforcing our leadership in the global aftermarket. These new additions reflect our relentless focus on innovation, quality, and meeting the needs of our customers. With this expansion, we’re not just delivering parts—we’re delivering solutions that drive success for our partners worldwide” said Ron Bernstein, President of North America, WAI Global.
WAI’s comprehensive product lineup includes 100% new starters, alternators, wiper motors, window regulators, brake calipers and a broad engine management program featuring ignition distributors, modules, coils, MAP sensors, and MAF sensors.
WAI is a premier global parts manufacturer for the automotive, heavy-duty, agricultural, industrial, and power sports aftermarket. With world-class parts manufacturing facilities, WAI consistently meets the parts needs of its global customers, under one united goal –to provide customers with the products they need, when they need them. As a leading innovator and premier parts manufacturer, WAI has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to a “first-to-market” strategy and continues to work relentlessly to meet the ever-changing needs of its customers. For more information visit www.WAIglobal.com
Quick, easy installation
Plug-and-play installation
With Philips Ultinon Access LED bulbs, installation is so quick and easy that retro�tting them is child’s play!
There’s no need for compatibility checks or adapter rings: Philips Ultinon Access LED bulbs have an ultra-compact body and an integrated IEC 60061 compatible base. Their direct-�t design features the same footprint as halogen bulbs, enabling straightforward installation in tight spaces.
Webasto and cylib turn today‘s used batteries into tomorrow‘s raw materials
The top-100-automotive supplier and the recycling scale-up from Aachen will be working together. The German recycling scale-up will collect and recycle used batteries and production waste from battery production at European sites of Webasto.
The growing number of used batteries due to the electrification of the automotive industry requires new solutions for their recycling. At the same time, the demand for materials like lithium and graphite is increasing. Partnerships between automotive suppliers and recycling companies therefore play a central role when it comes to both meeting sustainability targets and ensuring the availability of raw materials. Webasto, who has been producing battery systems for cars and commercial vehicles since 2019 and cylib have therefore signed a cooperation agreement.
The recycling process cylib relies on efficient and environmentally friendly battery recycling. All materials, including lithium and graphite, are fully recovered. The process combines mechanical, thermal and hydrometallurgical methods. Thanks to the minimal use of chemicals, the carbon footprint is up to 30 percent lower than with conventional methods. An innovative, water-based process also ensures particularly sustainable recovery of valuable raw materials. Webasto and cylib have been working together since 2023, including on ‟Design for Recycling“ projects.
‟Our recycling technology recovers all valuable materials from spent lithiumion batteries, including lithium and graphite. The partnership with Webasto is an important step towards scaling up battery recycling. Together, we are securing the raw materials of tomorrow and driving forward the circular economy in Europe.“
Dr. Gideon Schwich, cylib co-founder and COO
‟Collaborations like the one between Webasto and cylib are in the interest of the entire European automotive industry, because they make the local raw material ecosystem more sustainable and resilient ‒ ultimately benefiting everyone, right down to the end consumer.“
Black mass, that remains after a battery has been treated for recycling
NEW OFFICIAL PARTNERSHIP WITH COMTOYOU RACING
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BY
ASTON MARTIN
THE ULTIMATE TESTING GROUND
Comtoyou Racing pushes our advanced racing lubricants to the limit. As Official Lubricant Partner, Champion co-develops high-performance solutions—delivering insights that drive innovation on and off the track.
SCAN THE QR-CODE AND DISCOVER MORE ABOUT THE PARTNERSHIP
Filtration of the future –inspired by nature
MANN-FILTER presents new CO2-reduced filters impregnated with plant-based raw materials, manufactured using renewable energy, and packaged in sustainable, recycled material.
The automotive industry is facing enormous challenges. Increasing sustainability demands, growing customer expectations, and changes in consumer behavior are coming up against the need for economic efficiency. Global filtration expert MANN+HUMMEL has a long tradition in the development of new and innovative technologies. The topic of sustainability is firmly anchored in the company’s philosophy and is in the DNA of its premium brand MANN-FILTER. With a new product innovation made from renewable raw materials – at the same price and with the same performance – the technology leader is taking a big step forward.
But it doesn‘t stop there. For the fourth time in a row, the Ludwigsburg-based family business has been awarded a gold medal by EcoVadis, the world‘s leading independent provider of sustainability ratings for companies, for its commitment to sustainability. MANN+HUMMEL is also a member of the United Nations Global Compact initiative and publishes an annual sustainability report that transparently documents the progress of its sustainable transformation.
Product innovation made from renewable raw materials
Filters with cellulose media have previously been impregnated with fossil-based phenolic resin, which provides stability, rigidity, and chemical resistance. The filtration expert has partially replaced this crude oil-based treatment with the plant-based raw material lignin, a natural product contained in wood. Lignin is what makes wood stable and can also have the same effect on filter media. This technology is initially being used in selected MANN-FILTER air and oil filters – more filters will follow. As a result, MANN+HUMMEL is reducing the CO2 footprint of
the relevant lignin impregnation during production by up to 5 percent compared to regular phenolic resin impregnation. In addition, this reduces the amount of crude oil used for impregnation by around 27 percent. The calculation of the CO₂ values and the calculation method for determining the crude oil savings have been externally verified and validated by ClimatePartner. ClimatePartner is a German organization that supports companies in calculating, reducing and offsetting CO₂ emissions and offers climate neutrality labels. Thanks to the switch to lignin, the MANN-FILTER C 17 237 air filter, for example, saves 3.93 tons of CO₂ and more than 4,500 liters of crude oil annually, based on 2024 sales figures. The material used comes from certified sources. Lignin is produced in large quantities as a waste product in paper and pulp production – several million tons are generated worldwide every year.
With the power of nature. Next-gen filters with wood-based impregnation.
In the independent aftermarket, these innovative and more sustainable air filters are now available as MANN-FILTER applications for almost 70 million cars and transporters in Europe, while oil filters are ready to use for almost 17.6 million vehicles. The improved impregnation will now be incorporated into defined series products. More and more MANN-FILTER products are gradually being converted to lignin. „This means that customers do not have to choose between different versions, no additional storage space is needed, and no additional part numbers are required,“ explains Dr. Lars Spelter, lead engineer for filtration materials at MANN+HUMMEL. „Everything should be kept as simple as possible for our customers. Externally, the partially plant-impregnated filters differ from the conventional ones. They are slightly brownish due to the characteristic color of the lignin they contain and they have a pleasant, natural odor. The innovative products are easy to recognize by the green leaf pictogram on the packaging. Our lignin impregnation is a successful example of how ambitious CO2 reduction targets in product development can also be implemented in series products.“
Performance and sustainability
The new innovative filters combine sustainability with consistently high performance in the usual original equipment quality and meet the strictest requirements of the automotive industry.
Green electricity and environmentally friendly packaging
For a holistically sustainable approach, it is not just the components and materials of a filter that should be included in the environmental balance sheet, but also its manufacturing process. To further reduce CO2 emissions during production, MANN+HUMMEL will only use electricity from renewable sources or a combination of green electricity and certificates and guarantees of origin from hydro, solar, or wind power plants from 2025. Energy sources for the generation of process heat are also to be CO2 neutral from 2035 in order to achieve a significant milestone in CO2-free production.
MANN-FILTER packaging offers another approach to improving the ecological footprint. The global filtration expert relies on at least 90 percent recycled cardboard from certified raw material sources at its largest filter plant in Marklkofen, Germany. „For the yellow-green box, we consistently rely on sustainable materials and use mineral oil-free vegetable oil-based paints as well as water-based adhesives and coatings. We also attach great value to conserving resources in production: more than 95 percent of the waste generated during the production of our filters is recycled. This means that almost all production waste is recycled either materially or thermally,“ confirms Marian Anton, Business Development Manager at MANN+HUMMEL.
„Even with the increasing proliferation of more sustainable electric cars, the contribution of combustion engines to achieving climate neutrality by 2050 remains important and necessary,“ Anton explains. „After all, even though only new cars that are CO2 emission-free will be registered in the EU from 2035, millions of passenger cars and commercial vehicles with petrol or diesel engines will still be in use, not only in the EU, but worldwide. Our filtration solutions therefore play a crucial role in improving the sustainability of new and existing vehicles, especially combustion engines.“
Anton concludes with a look ahead: „The switch by our global premium brand MANN-FILTER to lignintreated products is the next step towards more sustainable filters. Other innovative, more sustainable product features are already being developed and some will even be launched on the market this year. Sustainability is not a trend for us, but part of our DNA. With our strong MANN-FILTER brand, we want to support our customers in being able to operate and live more sustainably. Now and in the future.“
Workshops and wholesalers can find more information on the subject of sustainability on the MANN-FILTER website: https://www.mann-filter.com
Choose the Magneti Marelli Parts & Services electronic systems range. High engine efficiency, reduced fuel consumption, and original advanced technology all packed in the yellow and blue BOX . A symbol of excellence in the automotive sector.
Scan the QR-code and watch the video.
magnetimarelli-parts-and-services.com
JetClean Tronic III: one concept, two machines
All-round carefree package for engine and particulate filter cleaning opens up additional business for workshops
Exhaust emissions and fuel residues dirty the fuel and intake system, and the particulate filter. To handle this problem LIQUI MOLY is introducing two versions of the JetClean Tronic III cleaning device.
Removing parts and cleaning or replacing them by hand costs garages time and money. It is much cheaper to clean the engine components in situ.
Workshops can choose between two types of the new JetClean Tronic cleaning device: the low-cost basic version is a tabletop unit with hose holder. This can be used to clean the fuel systems of gasoline and diesel engines. JetClean Tronic III Pro is a 3-in-1 solution: this flagship product cleans the fuel and intake system, including intake valves, and the particulate filter. In addition to a hose holder, the trolley device also has a visual and acoustic warning device and a stowage compartment. Both devices are fully electronic, have a 4-inch touch display and are WiFi enabled. This means that the latest software is always available – without additional annual costs.
Five special Pro-Line JetClean additives take care of removing deposits. One each for gasoline and diesel engine fuel systems. The Pro-Line intake system/valve cleaner has been newly developed in a gasoline and a diesel version, as well as the Pro-Line particle filter cleaner. This results in a very wide range of applications. It is suitable for almost all 2- and 4-stroke engines used in passenger cars, motorcycles, vans, boats and commercial vehicles such as trucks, construction and agricultural machinery.
JetClean Tronic III is a concept. The devices, the optional accessories such as adapters and fluids are the building blocks of the system as a whole. Other components include on-site training, social media marketing, outdoor advertising and promotions, and access to up-to-date documents and product information – all free of charge.
Click for more information www.liqui-moly.com
Setting quality standards for decades
ATE brings OE competence and full-range coverage of products and services
ATE has been setting standards in terms of quality for more than 100 years. With its latest quality initiative, the ATE premium brake brand highlights the values that have driven its success: uncompromising manufacturing standards, many years of experience in the original equipment sector, and one of the most comprehensive brake portfolios of products and services in the automotive aftermarket.
In the field of braking, safety is fundamental, making quality more than just a feature. It can be the crucial difference between average and exceptional performance when it truly matters. But what defines premium in this area – and why is it important for workshops and distributors? The ATE Quality Initiative 2025 presents key aspects in four major areas, showcasing its portfolio in the automotive aftermarket: experience, quality, portfolio and service.
OE expertise for the automotive aftermarket
When it comes to quality, one of the greatest advantages of partnering with ATE is its extensive experience in the original equipment (OE) sector. Not only do original equipment manufacturers heavily rely on ATE products, demonstrating their high quality, but a significant share of the products entering the automotive aftermarket are identical to those used in OE manufacturing. For the few remaining products, ATE uses OE development and testing specifications to ensure comparable quality down to the last detail. As a result, drivers benefit from reduced wear – which is more sustainable – and workshops benefit from higher margins for selling high-quality products, as well as smooth installation – which is crucial in their fast-paced service environment.
Full-line portfolio of products and services
Long-term product know-how and a deep understanding of customer needs are supported by one of the most comprehensive brake programs in the automotive aftermarket.
As a true full-range supplier, ATE covers nearly everything related to braking systems that workshops might need in their daily operations, from braking components such as pads and discs to e-ready products, specialized tools and services. The product range covers around 98 percent of the European passenger vehicle fleet. Therefore, when it comes to braking solutions, ATE is a one-stop-shop not only for workshops but also for distributors, offering reduced complexity, simpler logistics we well as a consistent product quality and compatibility made in Europe.
Quality-driven solutions for more than a century
The broad ATE portfolio is the result of almost 120 years of experience in the braking sector and long-standing partnerships with leading OEMs, trading companies and, of course, workshops. ATE was already contributing to the development of innovative braking technologies when founded by Alfred Teves in 1906, and has played an active role in shaping modern brake systems ever since. This continuity builds trust – and offers a stable foundation for future product generations. The expertise gained from nearly 120 years is reflected in ATE’s modern products, such as the ATE Ceramic Brake Pads and the New Original line, which includes sustainable innovations for the brakes of the future.
Long-lasting services and sustainability
The ATE Quality Initiative 2025 places significant emphasis on sustainability. This includes not only long-lasting, resource-efficient product design but also optimized packaging concepts utilizing reusable materials, recyclable tinplate cans as well as environmentally friendly colors and adhesives.
Complementing the product offerings is a broad service portfolio, featuring a complete ecosystem for professional automotive services. This includes technical documentation, an expert hotline, (online) training courses, an attractive workshop module and a digital knowledge platform –all designed to assist and prepare workshops today and in the future.
ATE Ceramic Brake Pads
ATE SecuBrake Brake Fluid
Sustainable filters for more climate-friendly mobility
With the vision of “purifying our planet”, Hengst Filtration wants to make the planet cleaner – also with classic vehicle parts such as oil filters. Filters are crucial for cleaner engines and fewer pollutants, and Hengst has been a reliable partner to the automotive industry since 1958. The aim is to achieve climateneutral production by 2030 - through renewable energies, optimized processes and sustainable supply chains.
Can conventional filters be produced sustainably? The answer: yes. Together with ClimatePartner, Hengst has analyzed the CO2 footprint of conventional oil filters. The result: more than 70 % of emissions are caused by the raw materials. So the biggest leverage lies with the material.
This is why Hengst has developed the Blue.balance oil filter: the same performance, but with recycled plastics and a 30 % lower CO2 footprint. Over a period of ten years, such a filter saves as much CO2 as 6100 smartphone charges - an important contribution, especially in the aftermarket.
Sustainability is also a top priority in original equipment: From 2025, Hengst will be mass-producing fuel filters made from recycled plastic for a well-known manufacturer – with hundreds of thousands of filters per year, that‘s a huge potential CO2 saving.
Sustainable filters from Hengst show: Ecology and performance need not be a contradiction in terms. Together with its partners, the company is driving forward climatefriendly mobility – for a clean and liveable future.
