SMTA Auto Insight – Issue 05

ISSUE

05

Your digital pathway to being equipped and qualified for EHV

THOMSON COOPER

Capital Expenditure for motor dealers MEMBER PROFILE:

TECH INSIGHT

Common faults and repairs

H.E.K. Car Sales

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CONTENTS COX AUTOMOTIVE Cautious optimism as showrooms reopen

THOMSON COOPER Capital Expenditure for motor dealers

SMTA NEW STAFF Say hello to our newest team members

MEMBER PROFILE H.E.K. Car Sales & Servicing, Dumfries

AUTOESURE Digital pathway to becoming authorised for electric

TECH INSIGHT New feature focusing on key technical points

WHAT’S IN MY GARAGE? Adrian Smith, SMTA Director and Past President

SMTA MARKETPLACE Sell your garage items with SMTA!

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Thank you to Bentley Glasgow for supplying the car shown on the cover of this issue.

If you would like to take advantage of advertising in this brand new magazine which reaches all SMTA members and beyond to approximately 5,000 sites across Scotland, or have an article you would like to discuss for publication contact: Wendy Hennessy Email: wendy.hennessy@smta.co.uk For details of all up and coming SMTA events please contact: Karen Thompson, Events & Media Manager Tel: 0131 331 5510 or Email: karen.thompson@smta.co.uk

Welcome... ..to edition five of our SMTA AutoINSIGHT Magazine incorporating Scots Auto Scene. The month of May is traditionally the first of those we often refer to as the “Summer” months, with thoughts of sunnier days and longer nights, regrettably our Scottish weather can and often does, prove us to be naive in daring to think in this way!

The Scottish elections are now behind us, and, at the time of writing this introduction, not a lot has changed, The SNP are in power with 64 MSP’s with the support of the Scottish Greens as before and the traditional opposition parties of The Conservative & Unionist, Labour and Liberal Democrats will make for some spectacular “political posturing” over the months and years ahead.

We will of course now witness the usual ministerial merry go round, with the newly re-elected First Minister deciding who gets to stay in and who must leave her cabinet. The SMTA will ensure that the voice of our industry gets well and truly heard both sides of the chamber at Holyrood and continue to work with partner trade associations in Westminster and Brussels.

At last, we are emerging from Lockdown two and there are signs across the sector of reason to be optimistic for the longer term with consumers gaining confidence and coming back to the market for repairs and to change their cars and vans. Supply of some spare parts is challenging and there is a huge demand for used vehicles impacting on the wholesale markets with prices very strong for the seller.

Many of you will have had one or both of your Covid vaccines and this programme has been a huge success for all the UK Governments, this is something that they should be very proud off having taken the steps early this is giving our country the drive and belief to rebuild our society, hopefully for the better and benefit of all.

The NHS has played a pivotal role throughout this pandemic, I am delighted that so many of our members were able to help with fundraising and support for their local NHS. Finally we are able to plan with a degree of confidence in the future and we have decided to proceed with two major events, the first on the 24th September 2021 being our Females in Focus event at the Norton House Hotel in Edinburgh, sponsored by Central Car Auctions and this is followed by the SMTA Annual Dinner this year being held at the Glasgow Hilton Hotel on the 28th October, tickets are available for both by contacting karen.thompson@smta.co.uk and for sponsorship enquiries please contact wendy.hennessy@smta.co.uk Finally, I wish you all the very best for the summer months ahead.

Scottish Motor Trade Association Ltd., Palmerston House, 10 The Loan, South Queensferry EH30 9NS SMTA Ltd Tel: 0131 331 5510 | Scotsure MBI Ltd Tel: 0131 331 5512

www.smta.co.uk

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

SMTA is proud to support:

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MARKET INSIGHT

by Philip Nothard Insight & Strategy Director, Cox Automotive

CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM AS SHOWROOMS REOPEN As the world’s largest automotive services organisation, Cox Automotive are committed to helping dealers navigate uncertainty in the wake of COVID-19 and help them on the road to recovery Since Philip’s last update, Cox Automotive have released the first issue of their brand-new auto insight report, AutoFocus in which they share the latest new and used car market intel.

In this feature Philip shares a fresh perspective on the latest trends, as well as the new Cox Automotive new and used car forecasts.

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THE NEW CAR MARKET: SUPPLY PROBLEMS STIFLE RECOVERY The world is currently amid a well-documented global shortage of semiconductors that are used to make the microchips found in all modern vehicles and other electronics. Since winter, supply chains for these chips have prioritised the consumer electronics market, impacting new car production lines globally. All manufacturers have felt the effect of this in some way and will likely continue to do so through to Q3.

Data and information services provider IHS Markit has indicated that there will be 1 million fewer cars produced globally in Q1 2021 due to disruptions to supply chains and the semiconductor shortage – 200,000 of which will be in Europe. The most significant impact will be on battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) because of the increased complexity in

their design. For example, a typical internal combustion engine vehicle (ICE) includes $60-$90 worth of semiconductors, while a BEV or PHEV can have five times the amount – $500 on average.

While some manufacturers have been hit less by the semiconductor shortage – namely Toyota and Hyundai who have stockpiles to draw from – most have had to make changes to their supply chains, meaning some models are in short supply.

2021 NEW CAR FORECAST The SMMT has acknowledged that car retailers’ shift to online orders and click-and-collect provided ‘a lifeline’ for the sector during lockdown. But while online models have helped retailers continue to sell throughout Q1, consumer demand and appetite for this type of purchase haven’t been enough to make up all of the lost physical sales.

In total, the UK has seen -12% fewer

NEW CAR ANNUAL FORCAST 2021 500,000

ACTUAL FORECAST 5 YEAR AVERAGE FORECAST RANGE

400,000

NEW CAR REGISTRATIONS

new car registrations in Q1 compared to 2020 – a year that was already impacted by many additional factors to Covid -19 such as Brexit and environmental legislation. Compared to 2019, the UK has seen -39.3% fewer registrations in Q1. We saw a small recovery at the end of March this year as virtually no sales took place from 23rd March 2020 following the first lockdown announcement, but overall, the market has been significantly impacted during what is a crucial quarter.

300,000

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100,000

Building on assumptions for the remainder of 2021, and in-line with previous Cox Automotive forecasts, several scenarios have been outlined for this year. There are best, mid and worst-case scenarios, with the middle ground representing the most likely outcome. As ever, there are significant, multiple and complex variables at play, so dealers and automotive retailers are advised to prepare for all possible contingencies.

BEST-CASE SCENARIO (UNLIKELY) – 2.05 M REGISTRATIONS This scenario assumes that postlockdown, the market recovers to volumes observed in 2019 with the only negative impact resulting from the Q1 lockdown. Large amounts of pent-up demand will see a strong bounce back in April and May following the restriction lift from 5th April, and retail activity will remain strong throughout the rest of the year.

MID-CASE SCENARIO – 1.87 M REGISTRATIONS This scenario assumes some modest pent-up demand in April and May, but general consumer

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nervousness remaining, meaning retail activity won’t recover fully.

This also assumes a continuation of the same supply constraints we are currently witnessing.

WORST-CASE SCENARIO – 1.66 M REGISTRATIONS For this scenario to play out, there will need to be no significant pentup demand driving up the recovery in April and May. We would also continue to see a heavy impact to new car supply and demand, while the UK tackles potential debt and unemployment problems resulting from Covid and the EU exit.

THE USED CAR MARKET: SHOWROOMS’ REOPENING GIVES USED MARKET A MUCH-NEEDED BOOST The used car market has never been so important in the UK. With changing commuting habits meaning public transport has fallen out of favour, coupled with increased disposable income for some

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households, used cars have been able to weather the storm better than new ones.

However, used car supply and retail activity remain down, and the latest lockdown in the UK during Q1 and early April has caused further headaches for retailers. Supply constraints are not likely to improve soon and we anticipate they could last through the remainder of H1.

Optimistically, we expect a release of rental and fleet vehicles into the market at some point shortly, but this is likely to skew prices just as the market had adjusted to the postpandemic world. With these lower mileage vehicles entering the market, the normal three-year/60k car will no longer be the standard, and we anticipate that there could be another period of price realignment as the market starts to correct and rebalance itself to account for these less well travelled vehicles.

The reopening of showrooms in April will provide a much-needed

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MARKET INSIGHT

While we know the supply will come back, the question is when will it be, and how much will be available?

We assume rental companies will not flood the market with all their product at once and we hope for a situation where there is not an over-supply. The one case where this would happen would be if a large rental company goes under.

2021 USED CAR FORECAST As with our new car forecasts, several scenarios have been outlined for this year. There are best, mid and worstcase scenarios, with the middle ground representing the most likely outcome. As ever, there are significant, multiple, and complex variables at play, so dealers are advised to prepare for all possible contingencies.

“The reopening of showrooms in April will provide a muchneeded boost for the sector and we will see an increase in activity due to some pent-up demand.”

USED CAR ANNUAL FORCAST 2021 800,000

USED CAR TRANSACTIONS

boost for the sector and we will see an increase in activity due to some pent-up demand. But stock supply shortages will continue to affect retailers throughout Q2 until the aforementioned lower mileage supply hits the market, and therefore we do not anticipate April 2021 numbers to recover to 2019 levels.

600,000

400,000

200,000 ACTUAL FORECAST 5 YEAR AVERAGE FORECAST RANGE

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BEST-CASE SCENARIO – 7.27 M USED CAR TRANSACTIONS This scenario assumes that the postlockdown market recovers to around 2001-2019 average levels of activity with significant consumer demand.

This demand would be supported by a healthy new car market and the return of end-of-contract vehicles from the rental and leasing sector.

MID-CASE SCENARIO – 6.81 M USED CAR TRANSACTIONS In this scenario, we see the fleet and rental sectors recover well providing much needed nearly-new product into the market. This will be a clear sign of the motor retail sector’s resilience through the adoption of omnichannel and digital retailing.

Sept 2020

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WORST-CASE SCENARIO – 6.50 M USED CAR TRANSACTIONS For this scenario to play out, we would need to see a weak economy and increased debt and unemployment following the lifting of lockdown restrictions.

There would be no significant pentup demand in April and May leading to weak retail activity.

We would also see a considerable supply shortage through the remarketing, defleet, and partexchange channels.

Visit Cox Automotive for the latest market insight. Take a deeper dive into the key topics discussed in this article and more in our new auto insight report, AutoFocus.

Visit the Cox Automotive Fuel content hub to read the report and keep up to date with our latest market insight and opinion: www.coxauto.co.uk/fuel

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July 2021

Sept 2021

Nov 2021

Jan 2022

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MARKET INSIGHT

by Mark Standish, CEO, Moto Novo Finance

‘WORLD CLASS SERVICE’ THE EXPERIENCE OF USED CAR BUYERS DURING THE PANDEMIC 143,485 CUSTOMERS JUDGED THEIR USED CAR BUYING EXPERIENCE AS ‘WORLD-CLASS’ In a year dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic and its lockdown conditions, car sales fell back. However, while new car registrations fell 29.4% in 2020, used car sales only reduced by 14.9%. The trend towards used cars mainly being attributed to financial uncertainty amongst consumers and moves away from public transport.

Against this backdrop, the experience used car buyers received from dealers was ‘worldclass’ according to a major online survey conducted throughout the last year by the UK’s second-largest provider of used car finance, MotoNovo Finance.

Throughout the last year, motor dealers adapted to the lockdown conditions to provide highly effective online capabilities to their long-established offline showroom service. The shift to online sales and financing with click and collect and home delivery services, supported by COVID-safe measures, was widely appreciated by a very significant number of delighted used car buyers. Many of these completed an online questionnaire reviewing their experience, which forms part of MotoNovo’s continuous improvement programme. The resulting customer feedback has been impressive with an overall Net Promotor Score, ‘NPS’ of 84.27 from 143,485 respondents.

To put this NPS rating in context, Bain & Co, which developed the NPS system used globally across multiple industries, suggests

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that a rating above 50 is excellent, and above 80 is world-class.

Reflecting on the research data, which captures feedback from used car buyers between April 2020 to March 2021, MotoNovo Finance CEO Mark Standish notes; “The speed, agility and success of our dealers as they transformed to provide customers with both online and offline used car sales access so successfully over the last year has been remarkable. The impressive NPS rating by such a large audience of customers is testimony to the quality of the car and financing buying journey they experienced first-hand with their dealers.”

While used sales did fall back in 2020, over 6.7 million used cars still changed hands throughout the year, with the majority sold by dealers across the UK. As the UK starts to re-open, a huge number of people will continue to look to the used car market for their next vehicle. The choice of cars, the opportunity of test driving one or a selection of vehicles to refine their choice, the reassurance of extensive consumer protection and one-to-one service are all available from a dealer, and there is more.

Today, dealers have moved to provide customers with a complete online and offline choice as Mark concludes: “Today, used car buyers can find their car, dealer and finance online and now. If they want it delivered, then that is something that over 80% of our dealer network is only too happy to offer. The choice of cars, the car buying control and consumer

protection available for customers buying their next used car from a dealer, is extensive. The ‘icing on the cake’ is service reassurance. Through the dealers with which we work, used car buyers can also be confident that they will benefit from a dealer network that previous buyers ranked ‘world class’ over the last year.”

While the data and the weight of evidence it provides is linked to the 2,000 dealers across the UK with which MotoNovo works, a glance at the review of many dealers online reveals an overwhelmingly positive experience reported by car buyers.

As the SMTA’s chief executive, Sandy Burgess reflects, dealers of all size must not overlook the power of reviews, noting; “The car buying experience for consumers is very arguably better than it has ever been. New FCA rules to ensure good customer outcomes, a significant move to provide omnichannel retailing car buying choice and with it a car buying process that is led by the car buyer commonly, home delivery and significant consumer protection are just part of what is a highly customer-centric experience for the vast majority of people.

It is beholden on all of us in the sector to keep championing the quality of work we deliver, keep pushing standards ever higher and encouraging customers to share their positive experiences.

We can all benefit by changing historic perceptions and we can all play our part in doing just that.”

For more information visit www.motonovofinance.com

First Response Finance are an award-winning vehicle finance company focussed within the non-prime market. We are proud to be a customer-orientated company who provide simple financial solutions to consumers throughout the UK. We consider ourselves to be different from other finance companies because we don’t focus on profit; our focus is on service, making our customer & dealer partners our priority with everything that we do.

We offer a simple Hire Purchase product to your customers, for both new and used motor vehicles including cars, motorbikes and vans. We provide a friendly and individually tailored service for our customer and dealer partners.

We approve your customers based on their credit file & current situation, using just APRs so your customer will know exactly how much their Hire Purchase agreement will cost them.

We already work with thousands of trusted motor dealers on a regular basis, this ensures our customers have the best choice of great quality cars, bikes and vans available in the market.

We cannot be accessed through any brokers, so you can cut out the middleman and be sure that both you and your customers will get the best service possible.

CONTACT US TODAY: 0115 946 6260

enquiries@frfl.co.uk www.frfl.co.uk/car

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MARKET INSIGHT

by Bobby Lamond, Development Leader, Marsh Commercial

ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING POINTS ON FORECOURTS: INSURANCE CONSIDERATIONS In 2020, the UK was in 5th place in the world with 181,000 sales of battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids. Electric vehicles now account for 11.1% of all new vehicle registrations, compared to 3.2% in 2019. As of the end of December 2020 there were more than 435,000 registered electric cars in the UK.1 With nine years left until the government’s 2030 deadline to ban the sale of all petrol and diesel vehicles, and only one in every 70 drivers currently driving an electric vehicle, what can be done to help make the driving population go electric? 1 And what are the potential insurance risks that electric vehicle charging points pose?

WHAT IS STOPPING DRIVERS FROM ADOPTING ELECTRIC VEHICLES? According to research, some of the reasons include: 1 Lack of charging points – 63.5% of drivers see that charging point availability is the biggest disadvantage of electric vehicles. 1 Vehicle range – ‘Range anxiety’ is the second biggest disadvantage of electric vehicles but this is improving, according to 59.6% of drivers. 1 Charging speed – 55.9% of driver concern is that it takes too long to charge when travelling. However, some vehicles can add hundreds of miles in 20 minutes. 1 Cost – Over half of drivers (52.9%) see the cost to purchase or lease as a barrier. However, there is comparatively little maintenance required and predictions of price parity with petrol and diesel cars by 2024. 1

CONSIDERATIONS FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING POINT PROJECTS

Asset cover – cover against damage to charging points and associate equipment. The assets will need cover in the event of malicious damage or defacing of the points.

There is currently a geographical imbalance of charging stations.

London accounts for 27% of all charging stations in the UK, with an average of 10 cars per charger. More electric vehicle charging stations are required, and with government funding may help to reduce this problem. 1

Loss of revenue – cover against the loss of income following damage to your EV charging point or forecourt.

This could be a requirement for lenders and if not this should be reviewed to determine any single points of failure and the knock-on effect this has to your network of chargers. For forecourts this must be considered.

With new electric vehicle charging point projects, if you are installer it’s important to have the right cover in place for the project. The type of cover that you need will depend on the type of electric vehicle charging station that you have or are looking to install. For example:

Infrastructure - You should also consider the surrounding infrastructure of your charging station or forecourt. For example, where are your chargers receiving their power from? What happens if this fails?

COVER CONSIDERATION FOR STANDALONE EV CHARGERS AND EV FORECOURTS

If you have any queries about any of the issues discussed in this article, please do not hesitate to get in contact with our dedicated SMTA Marsh Commercial contact.

Public and products liability – cover protecting you against any damage to third party property or injury to third parties. The main exposures being slips, trips and falls. Consider the physical charging and how you can mitigate people tripping over the charging cable. In commercial and public settings this could be your visitors, neighbouring businesses etc.

Dedicated SMTA point of contact: Bobby Lamond Tel: 07920 502310 Email: bobby.lamond@marshcommercial.co.uk 1

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AX Whitepaper ‘what will finally start the electric vehicle revolution?’, Feb 2020

The SMTA is holding their Community Activity Recognition (C.A.R) Star Awards at this year’s Annual Dinner on Thursday 28th October at the Hilton Glasgow (see page 43 for more details).

These awards recognise our members that combine business success with involvement in their community and employees who support their locally based projects and charities.

To nominate someone please request an entry form.

Contact karen.thompson@smta.co.uk

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES We have various sponsorship opportunities available – to find out more please contact: Wendy Hennessy Tel: 07974 380140 Email: wendy.hennessy@smta.co.uk

COMPETITION WINNER

The winner of the GES competition in issue 4 of Auto Insight was SMTA Member, Graeme Donaldson of Links Tyre Centre, 3-4 links Court, Bo’ness, West Lothian, EH51 9UD. Graeme correctly entered the answer of 23 inches. He plans to use the voucher on a selection of Sealey Tools from the GES catalogue.

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MARKET INSIGHT

by Andrew Croxford, Senior Partner at Thomson Cooper

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE FOR MOTOR DEALERS As we begin to see tentative steps taking us out of lockdown and consumer confidence begins to increase, many motor dealers are now considering whether they need to invest in their premises and other fixed assets to position themselves for the new normal, whatever that may look like.

There have been a number of significant tax announcements made recently which could have a major impact on plans for capital expenditure. While some reliefs extend to businesses operating as sole traders or partnerships, the following is focussed on those reliefs available to motor dealers and garages trading as limited companies.

TAX CHANGES In the UK Budget held on 3 March 2021 the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, announced a number of significant changes to the corporation tax regime which business owners need to be aware of. The principal areas are as follows: 1. A ‘super deduction’ of 130% for spend on new qualifying assets.

2. A first year allowance of 50% on most new plant and machinery expenditure that would normally qualify for the special allowance on fixtures and fittings which are an integral part of a building.

3. A temporary extension of the period that businesses can carry back losses and obtain a repayment, from one year to three years.

4. An indication of higher corporation tax rates from the current 19% to 25% from 1 April 2023.

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WHEN IS A DEDUCTION A SUPER DEDUCTION? For expenditure incurred between 1 April 2021 and 31 March 2023, companies spending money on new qualifying plant and machinery, can now claim a super deduction of 130%. This replaces expenditure that would ordinarily have qualified for an 18% main rate, albeit potentially eligible for a claim for annual investment allowance of 100%.

Similarly, for expenditure incurred during the above period, on items qualifying as plant and machinery within integral fixtures and fittings, a first year allowance of 50% is available compared with the normal 6% rate for expenditure incurred before 1 April 2021.

Items purchased, and a super deduction claimed, must be separately identified so that if those assets are subsequently sold, the sale proceeds are grossed up by 130% in calculating the gain arising.

WHAT IS THE ANNUAL INVESTMENT ALLOWANCE? Normally businesses can only claim capital allowances on a percentage each year on assets bought for use in the business. The rate can vary depending on the nature of the asset purchased.

The normal rate is 18%, however, for any capital expenditure incurred in the period ended 31 December 2021, businesses can set up to £1m of qualifying expenditure against their profits and obtain full tax relief in that year.

WHAT ABOUT TAX LOSSES? Historically, limited companies with a loss could elect to either carry the loss forward to the following year or, if they had taxable profits in the previous year, they could carry the loss back for a period of one year and obtain a tax repayment of any tax paid in that previous year.

In recognition that many businesses have incurred losses due to COVID-19, the Chancellor introduced a temporary extension period such that for any accounting years falling within the two years ended 31 March 2022, any loss arising can now be carried back for a period of three years, with losses being carried back against later years first.

There is a limit of £2m on the amount

of losses that can be carried back using this concession. As noted in the table of Tax Changes, corporation tax rates are planned to increase from the current 19% to 25% for companies with profits over £250,000. The old 19% rate will remain for companies with profits of less than £50,000 and a sliding scale of rates for profits between £50,000 and £250,000.

Before deciding to carry back losses to an earlier year and obtain tax relief at 19%, consideration should be given to carry the loss forward and set against profits that would be taxed at 25%.

Carrying back losses, however, does generate cash flow to the company of any tax paid in the previous three years and this needs to be taken into account.

Careful planning with your tax adviser is essential.

WHAT IS PLANT AND MACHINERY? In most cases, plant and machinery is relatively straightforward to identify, being tangible assets used in the course of a business.

Some items are obvious, such as computer equipment, chairs and desks, hoists and even solar panels on a roof.

Sometimes, the distinction is not clear, and in such situations it is important to take advice if obtaining tax relief is one of the drivers behind the planned capital expenditure.

WHAT ARE INTEGRAL FIXTURES AND FITTINGS? As explained previously, capital allowances can be claimed on certain fixtures and fittings which form an integral part of a building. This can be expenditure carried out on a new building or on a subsequent refurbishment.

Again, careful planning is important to identify any assets that would qualify, but typical examples are electrical systems, air conditioning and lighting systems.

Before a programme of works is agreed, it is worth sitting down with the builder and architect to separately identify all assets which will be created as part of the new building or a refurbishment of an existing property.

WHAT IMPROVEMENTS ARE SIMPLY REPAIRS? Often when a refurbishment of a garage or showroom is taking place, much of the expenditure may simply be a repair which is allowed as a cost against your trading income. If the expenditure involves a capital improvement, then such expenditure is not an allowable expense against income but may qualify for the special capital allowances regime set about above. The tax legislation does not specifically define repairs, but it is generally seen as restoring an asset or the replacement of particular parts, rather than replacement of the whole asset. A capital improvement is something that goes beyond a basic repair, for example, if a storm caused damage to a roof and the roof was restored to its original state, this would be a repair. However, if the whole roof was removed and either an additional storey was added to the building or a flat roof became a pitched roof, then there could be an argument that there has been a capital improvement as you are going beyond the basic repair.

There are also specific provisions in tax legislation for work carried out after recently purchasing a property and the expenditure was incurred to bring the property up to a state when it can properly function. Such expenditure is usually seen as capital but, again, it is a complicated area and needs careful planning.

CONCLUSION Any motor dealers and garages contemplating capital expenditure need to plan carefully and establish the nature of the work to be done. Ideally, advanced planning and discussions should be held with architects, builders and accountants that clearly establishes the nature of the expenditure. By doing so, business owners can make sure that all available tax reliefs are taken into account. www.thomsoncooper.com Andrew Croxford is a partner in Thomson Cooper with offices in Dunfermline and Edinburgh. He heads up their audit and corporate finance departments and acts as auditor and business adviser to many companies operating in the automotive sector.

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MARKET INSIGHT

by Simon King, Managing Director of Autotech Training

TRAINING ESSENTIAL TO CREATING THE WORKSHOP OF THE FUTURE Following news that the ban on petrol and diesel car sales has been brought forward to 2030, the automotive industry is gearing up for its biggest challenge to date - the need to retrain technicians to service the electric/hybrid vehicles which are set to deluge the sector.

Unfortunately, Covid-19 may have derailed efforts to get the critical mass of vehicle technicians needed to service the electric/ hybrid car parc trained. With the number of certificates for working on electric vehicles issued in 2020 falling by 85% in the same period as the year before.

For years, the rapid acceleration of the automotive industry has largely left the skill set of the current workforce behind. But never have we faced such a vital need to press the skills reset button.

While being able to instil confidence within the consumer, and open up a new revenue stream by having a skilled workforce to service electric/hybrid vehicles is important, the need to safeguard the safety of employees is crucial.

And let’s face it, if vehicle technicians are not adequately trained, it will only be a question of time before somebody, without the right knowledge, puts a spanner in a high voltage area. Consequently, garage owners could find themselves liable.

Last year, to support the electric/hybrid vehicle transition within the aftermarket, we made our most substantial investment within our Autotech Training division to date. The pinnacle of this investment was the opening

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of our dedicated EV Training Suite, complete with an electric car to deliver hands-on training to our contractors and workshop staff.

Certified to deliver IMI Levels 1 to 4 Electric/ Hybrid vehicle courses, we can also deliver at the premises of ANY garage or business across the UK looking to equip their employees with the relevant knowledge, while keeping their time away from business to a minimum.

While EV training is vital, building in a culture of ongoing training to ensure employees have the relevant skills needed to service increasingly technical vehicles is of equal importance. As a company we are committed to driving up automotive skills, from investing in our own vehicle technician and MOT tester contractor network, to increasing our training offering to the wider industry. Putting training at the bottom of the pile is short-sighted and, in some cases, it can’t be put off. Take the annual MOT assessment, if left too late this could affect a technician’s RAG rating and their viability to test. In a matter of hours a technician can be trained to the current, DVSA syllabus and complete the assessment.

Just last month, Autotech Training launched IMI accredited ADAS courses, largely due to the fact that there are now 4.5 million

ADAS enabled vehicles on UK roads. Sensor calibration requirements vary within these vehicles, and the recent IIR guidance, set out

by Thatcham Research, will ensure that vehicle manufacturers’ technical specifications are met to reinstate ADAS features safely.

Training is imperative to ensure that vehicle technicians can safely repair these cars, without compromising insurance. However, a recent survey* has revealed that 29% of independent garages sometimes turn away work because they don’t have the skills to service modern vehicles.

Technology is moving so quickly, and the automotive businesses cannot afford to fall behind due to a lack of skills. www.autotechrecruit.co.uk/training

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AUSTRIAN PEUGEOT DEALER GROUP ARE PIONEERS, JUST LIKE BOSMAN IN HIS DAY! Sports fans among us will still know him, Marc Bosman: that’s right, he was the Belgian who sued his football club in the early 1990s because he was supposed to play for less money and his club RFC Liège wanted a transfer fee for his move to a second division club in France. Bosman litigated for five years and won: since 1995, players are no longer serfs of the respective club and are allowed to move to another club without a transfer fee at the end of their contract.

The fact that the Supreme Court has ruled in favour of an Austrian Peugeot dealer against the vehicle importer has consequences for the entire industry, not only in Austria.

importer’s own operations may no longer compete with private dealers on the retail market with subsidized vehicle prices. In the repair store business, the importer’s complex control system must be stopped, as must hourly rates that do not cover costs and make warranty and guarantee work unprofitable for dealers.

EUROPEAN RECOGNITION Just as a quarter of a century ago the Bosman ruling strengthened the position of thousands of professional footballers throughout the EU, all European car dealers and service partners can now see themselves at an advantage over their respective importers.

The name of the Upper Austrian car dealer who filed a lawsuit against a seemingly overpowering opponent also begins with B: Josef Büchl versus Peugeot Austria was the match in court, which was reported on in detail in Austrian newspapers in recent years. Sometimes, at the request of the importer, the public was even excluded from the trial, so sensitive were the points being discussed. Already in May of the previous year, the trial ended with a victory for Büchl: But the opponent went to appeal, and now the extension has also been decided by the Supreme Court, nothing more is possible.

No wonder experts across Europe are rejoicing: Bernard Lycke, director general of the Brussels-based European dealer association CECRA, calls the ruling a ‘breakthrough in the decades-long fight for greater fairness in the relationship between manufacturers and dealers. This applies equally to Austria and to the whole of Europe. In light of all the ongoing radical changes and challenges, the ruling could pave the way for a new partnership in the auto industry” Bernard Lycke CECRA Director General said.

OPPRESSIVE SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE TRADER

And Austria? The long-time dealer spokesman Josef Schirak was happy that Büchl had been prepared to take on the whole procedure (also supported by the Chamber of Commerce and the VÖK) and not to give in to a possible settlement offer by Peugeot Austria. However, he does not want the ruling to be understood as a victory, nor does he want to stir up the industry: ‘If someone is happy to be gagged, then that’s okay with me. I am not the one who says: Sue your manufacturer’, At the latest after the first ruling of the Vienna Higher Regional Court last year, Peugeot Austria should have realised that the lawsuit brought by the Upper Austrian dealer Josef Büchl also had European dimensions, commented Schirak: “Now

A brief history: Büchl had turned to the Cartel Court in 2018 because it was suffering from what it considered to be oppressive demands and specifications from Peugeot Austria. This is not an isolated case; it is the same for many colleagues in the industry in Austria and abroad, and by no means only Peugeot dealers.

The verdict, in a nutshell: Peugeot is no longer allowed to link premium payments to dealers in its new car sales to customer satisfaction surveys, as was previously the case. It is also no longer allowed to reduce dealers’ margins if they fail to meet deliberately inflated sales targets. The

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THE INDUSTRY DOES NOT WANT TO STIR THINGS UP

the ruling is Europe-wide and applies to all manufacturers.

TRADERS STRENGTHENED Günther Kerle, spokesman of the Working Group of Automobile Importers in the Federation of Austrian Industry, stated he expects that the ruling may have an impact on one or the other importers who, for example, mix customer satisfaction and bonuses: but in the past few years, many manufacturers have had similar practices, says Kerle. Kerle believes that Peugeot dealers in other European countries have also been eagerly awaiting the ruling and would now draw the necessary conclusions. The dealers have certainly come out of this trial stronger,” says the importer’s spokesman: “In future, they can refer to the Büchl ruling, regardless of the brand, should similar practices be threatened.

DEALER ASSOCIATION IS PLEASED The mood at the Club of Austrian Peugeot Dealers is also positive: We welcome the verdict and we would like to thank the Büchl company, says chairwoman Ursula Mayer-Rabl, location manager of the Mayer company in Giesshübl. She now hopes for the quickest possible and constructive talks with Peugeot Austria, to sort things out: I am confident that this will succeed.

IMPLEMENT UNTIL 22 JUNE And the opposing party, i.e. Peugeot Austria? Spokesman Christoph Stummvoll, MBA, reacted to the ruling of the Supreme Court in the Büchl case with a short written statement on 24 March: “We received the decision of the Supreme Court as the higher cartel court in the appeal case Büchl GmbH v. Peugeot Austria GmbH on 22 March. This is a last-instance decision. We have taken note of it and will now analyse it in detail.

Subsequently, we will develop appropriate solutions for the required points within the deadline of three months until 22 June set by the Supreme Court. We will report on this in detail in the coming issues.

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SAY HELLO… Introducing our newest members of staff.

STUART KENNEDY Stuart’s role will be as SMTA Territory Account Manager (TAM) covering our Scottish northern territories, incorporating all areas from Perth to the North. Stuart will be assisting all our SMTA members during his routine visits and will always be available on telephone and by email when required.

Stuart has over 25 years’ experience working with franchise and independent retailers across Scotland in a variety of roles with Autotrader- Scottish Motor Auction Group and Gardx. He is looking forward to meeting previous and new clients in the Northern Territory where he will be supporting SMTA members and trading partners.

When not at work Stuart enjoys music, all things internet related and dogs.

Stuart can be contacted on: 07375 057560 or stuart.kennedy@smta.co.uk

LYNN GREIG Lynn has joined the SMTA as our Scotsure account manager for Scotland and is very much looking forward to meeting all Scotsure clients, both old and new, becoming their new point of contact and assisting in any way she can.

Lynn has over 25 years experience in the motor trade starting with her family run small independent car sales showroom before moving into the remarketing arena, firstly with Central Car Auctions and then latterly BCA. In her spare time Lynn enjoys spending time with her children, live music and comedy, exploring new cities and walking her dog.

Lynn can be contacted on: 07597 581335 or lynn.greig@smta.co.uk

NICKY THOMSON Nicky joins SMTA as an Accounts Administrator and is delighted to join the team in South Queensferry. Nicky who lives in Edinburgh previously worked at Evans Halshaw Vauxhall for 16 years and is looking forward to starting a new chapter in her life with SMTA. In her spare time Nicky enjoys spending time with her 5-year old granddaughter.

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MOT TESTER TRAINING AND ANNUAL ASSESSMENTS The IMI have produced a list of study topics for 2021/22 MOT training:

CLASS 4 AND 7 – NEW VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY ● Lighting systems, multiple function lamps ● Electric, hybrid and hydrogen powered vehicle ● Health and safety when dealing with alternative fuel vehicles

● Major Minor Dangerous (ensure minor defects are recorded)

● Lighting systems, multiple function lamps

● Chassis types

● Health and safety when dealing with alternative fuel vehicles

● Dealing with technical enquires

● Fly by wire’ steering systems

CORROSION AND STANDARDS OF REPAIR

● Carbon fibre components

● Prescribed areas

MOT TESTING REQUIREMENTS ● VE powers and procedures ● Training logs. ● Equipment failure (including linked equipment 4 & 7 only)

CLASS 1 AND 2 – NEW VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY ● Electric powered vehicle

● Carbon fibre components

MOT TESTING REQUIREMENTS

● Chassis types

● VE powers and procedures

● Suitable materials

● Training logs.

● Bonded repairs

● Equipment failure

● Repairs to alloy/steel wheels

● Test equipment including operating instructions

● Carbon fibre components

● Recording of vehicle details

● Brake pipes

● PRS

TESTING PROCEDURES

● Emission test

● Recording of vehicle details

● Tyres for Group B

● Dealing with technical enquires

● PRS

● Smoke test

● Emission and smoke test (BET test procedures smoke test temperature etc)

● Drivers view

● Test equipment including operating instructions

● Linked braking systems

● Major Minor Dangerous

CORROSION AND STANDARDS OF REPAIR ● Prescribed areas ● Frame arrangements including sidecars ● Suitable materials ● Bonded repairs ● Repairs to alloy/steel wheels ● carbon fibre components ● Brake pipes

TESTING PROCEDURES ● Tyres for Group A ● Linked braking systems ● Braking system modification ● Multi-link suspension ● Headlamp conversions ● Jacking of the vehicle

● Headlamp conversions ● Jacking of the vehicle

HOW TO BOOK SMTA members can book their training and assessment with SMTA and the IMI for only £52 plus VAT – please email: info@smta.co.uk to book.

You must complete your training by 31st March 2022.

LAND/DEVELOPMENT SITE AT PERTH ROAD, BIRNAM Property has suffered fire damage and is subject to a pre-emption right.

Previously used as car dealership. Offers sought in excess of £30,000.

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Please contact Donna Strong on

0333 006 0400 for further details

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All areas covered within mainland Scotland.

MEMBER PROFILE

H.E.K. CAR SALES AND SERVICING

EDDIE ELDER TALKS TO THE SMTA ABOUT HIS USED CAR BUSINESS, H.E.K. Dumfries based H.E.K. Car Sales and Servicing is an established family run used car business with over 20 years’ experience, who pride themselves on delivering first-class customer service.

SMTA: How did you come to start up?

Eddie: I had previously worked as a salesman in the motor trade but due to the closure of the business I went into a different industry. One night I was driving by a property and saw a ‘for let’ sign in the window, so I took a photo and I called first thing on Monday regarding the property. The rest is history!

SMTA: How has the business grown since then?

Eddie: The business has grown massively since we started from 12 cars with a retail value averaging £2,500 to present day, 3 years later with 37 cars with a retail of an average of £6,500. We have reinvested everything back into stock and tried to look at what our customers want.

With 12 cars priced at £2,500 average we were never going

24 WWW.SMTA.CO.UK

to attract repeat customers as sometimes they want to better themselves after the first car, so we try now to cater for customers who need first car, second car or family car.

SMTA: Can you run me through a typical day?

Eddie: A normal day is in the garage starts at 8.30am with the coffee machine on! I check leads from the night before along with web stats and sit down with the workshop team to see what’s on for the day. I also speak with my sales team and pass out the leads etc, see what’s on the go test drives, etc.

As we are a fully indoor pitch you can end up moving 10 cars to get the one out you want, I then re build the showroom and get settled for the day.

I also speak with our finance broker for an update, check

on the test drives and how they’re going, pop into the workshop to ensure the parts for the day have arrived, speak with some customers, check stock. Pretty much checking everyone is doing their job from the valet team to the admin sales team. I then go home to my family and look at making an ‘action list’ for the next day.

SMTA: What’s been the highlight of your business so far?

Eddie: Highlights of the business so far getting the keys for the pitch and seeing happy customers picking up their new car and repeat business is now starting to come through the door.

SMTA: What’s the one thing your business couldn’t function without?

Eddie: A good strong team behind me working hard to make all our new and old customers happy.

SMTA: What’s the best thing about working for yourself?

Eddie: The freedom to spend more time at home with the family.

SMTA: And the hardest part?

Eddie: Everyone looks at you for the answers if things don’t go right especially in the last 12 months due to Covid-19.

The hardest part is ensuring customers are happy and treated fairly but making sure that customers are aware they are buying a used car which will at some point will

need some money invested in the car from themselves for servicing etc..

SMTA: What do you wish you’d known when you first started out?

Eddie: How hard it would be buying the right stock especially in the last 12 months where every dealer is buying from photographs which is unfortunately not the easiest to do, but looks like it will be the future . It’s about trusting the auction houses and the dealers entering the vehicles into them.

SMTA: If you could go back and change one thing, what would it be?

Eddie: Nothing I’ve learned from the last few years.

SMTA: How does your SMTA membership help?

Eddie: SMTA are great from the tyres we buy to the legal help if you get a unhappy customer around support – there not as silly question you can ask.

SMTA: Where will your business be in five years’ time?

Eddie: In five years’ time I hope to be still pushing and pushing the business to the next level maybe another site somewhere but hope we are not in lockdown number 15.

SMTA: How do you maintain customer levels?

Eddie: Maintaining customer levels is one of the hardest things in the motor trade, as we all know cars do break down

unfortunately but as long as we deal with them in the right manner and treat customers fairly, it all comes back to buying of the stock and preparation.

SMTA: What form does your marketing take?

Eddie: As we are a small independent and don’t have a large franchise badge outside, it’s all about branding from keyring number plate, window sticker, your warranty company, use of a great website presence.

We also use loads of over branding i.e. warranty companies as they have a massive TV web presence our main marketing is Facebook as everyone has it to be fair even your 90 year old grandmother.

SMTA: What is the biggest challenge in used cars?

Eddie: The biggest challenge apart from buying is keep selling the volume of stock each every month, changing marketing, tweaking adverts daily making sure fresh stock is on SMTA: What drives you?

Eddie: I’m not going to say customer satisfaction to me it’s about a better way of life for me my family and my employees and of course, money SMTA: What’s the most important thing you’ve learned in your career, and how have you made use of it?

Eddie: Always think before you answer a question.

WWW.SMTA.CO.UK

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JOIN OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS Be part of SMTA’s future Passionate about the Scottish motor trade? Being on the SMTA board means you can shape its future, help drive the company forward to establish its goals and vision. Board members are selected not only for their experience but also for their knowledge and motivation. Contributing to the SMTA at this level is a highly rewarding experience and well worth doing, earning respect and recognition for your involvement.

Your industry knowledge would be invaluable to us.

INTERESTED?

How much of my time would it take up?

Meetings are held six times throughout the year plus an AGM, these are currently being held remotely due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The meetings last around one and a half hours. It really isn’t an onerous task as we do not want to take up too much of your valuable time. All of our directors are invited to our Annual Dinner and various other events as guests of SMTA.

For an informal chat about the roles available and to answer any questions you may have please contact Chief Executive, Sandy Burgess: sandy.burgess@smta.co.uk

MARKET INSIGHT

by Kevin Millar, Gateway Project Manager, SMTA

ROADMAP OUT OF LOCKDOWN AND KICKSTART GATEWAY This month sees us take our first real steps in following the ‘Roadmap out of Lockdown’, along with SMTA reaching a significant milestone as a Kickstart Gateway for the motor industry.

It’s been a bumpy yet exhilarating ride so far with more than a few twists and turns. Despite that we’ve navigated our way through to secure over £1 million of Government funding for those employers who signed up to join us on the Kickstart journey.

That’s over £1million in support of our industry which is two-fold: it offers meaningful employment opportunities to Scotland’s young workforce while providing employers with the funds to fulfil recruitment needs without the burden of cost, risk or obligation. Issue 04 of Auto Insight carried a detailed feature on the Kickstart scheme but let us recap for those who missed it…

As an approved UK Government Gateway organisation, SMTA will pass on to you 100% of employment costs for 25hrs per week over six-months and a £1,000 set up grant when you employ an eligible young person aged 16 -24 and who is claiming Universal Credit. There is no obligation for an employer to retain a trainee beyond the six month contract.

The work experience along with the tailored employability training provided

by SMTA will ensure every young person is better equipped to find and sustain future employment. That is the core aim of the Kickstart programme.

The funding is for any job that meets your recruitment needs and the roles secured to date are as diverse as the young talent pool seeking to be your new recruit. A great example of that is Shannon at H.E.K. Car Sales where her existing knowledge and experience, coupled with her drive and ambition, means she has the potential to become a real asset and key member of the team at H.E.K. Other employers have grasped the opportunity to view the placement as a pre-apprenticeship role.

28 WWW.SMTA.CO.UK

Shannon Smillie, was our first Kickstart trainee.

Kickstart allows both parties to gauge the trainee’s suitability and whether they can meet the expectations and requirements of any Modern Apprenticeship framework.

This is a great way of measuring and evaluating a young person’s desire and ability to succeed in the role prior to the commitment and investment in an apprenticeship.

However, let’s not underestimate the value in simply providing six months experience to our young people and how productive those additional pairs of hands can be to your business. In addition to technical posts, we have filled Valeting, Tyre Fitting, Service Desk, Parts Department and Sales positions across the length and breadth of Scotland. The key skills and experience gained from these opportunities are at the very heart of the Kickstart scheme and its ambitions to better equip and prepare our young people for the world of work.

The latest economic and employment reports contain stark warnings of how the current economic crisis will have a scarring effect on young people, their earnings and prospects. Youth unemployment is set to remain high even after other areas of the economy begin to recover.

We were all young once and full of dreams and aspirations, but as Scotland’s young workforce of yesteryear we never experienced the challenges they face today. The SMTA are fully committed to supporting our young people at a time of need. We believe that by working in

partnership with employers across the motor industry, we can provide a positive learning experience for each trainee engaged on the scheme and fulfil industry recruitment needs while aiding Scotland’s economic recovery.

Securing over £1m funding is an impressive start but SMTA’s aspirations and ambitions for our industry and our future workforce will drive us on to achieve even greater things together. So please consider giving the youth of Scotland a chance to grow and develop in the same way that someone gave you a chance when you were young.

As I said at the beginning, Kickstart is a norisk, no-cost, no-obligation fully funded proposal. We can support you every step of the way from filling out the paperwork, creating vacancy templates, dealing with DWP on your behalf throughout the process, short-listing candidates, arranging interviews and everything in between to allow you to get on with your work and do what you do best. I urge you to join us on our collective journey to recovery and a brighter future for all.

To find out more on how you can put Scotland’s young workforce at the very heart of Scotland’s economic recovery, and explore how Kickstart can support your business needs, just give me a call on 07593-800-386 or email kickstart@smta.co.uk.

• Sickness, holiday, training days and business peaks cover • Fully qualified and vetted vehicle technicians and MOT testers • Contracts lasting from one day to six months at a time • UK-wide network of over 450 contractors

SHORT-STAFFED? WE PROVIDE RELIABLE TEMPORARY COVER FOR ABSENT VEHICLE TECHNICIANS AND MOT TESTERS.

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MARKET INSIGHT

by Sandy Burgess FIMI, SMTA Chief Executive

THE DIGITAL PATHWAY TO BECOMING A FULLY EQUIPPED AND QUALIFIED EHV SERVICE AND REPAIR CENTRE. Over the past decade the manufacturing of Hybrid and fully electric vehicles has increased dramatically and will continue to do so exponentially following the Government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and the introduction of legislation to ban the production of ICE (Internal Combustion Engines) in vehicles from 2030. Many of the major car manufacturers have already committed to cease ICE production before this deadline.

For the independent garage this means embracing the inevitable changes that need to take place in terms of understanding how to future proof their businesses if they want to continue to thrive and survive in today’s rapidly advancing technology driven society.

We have developed AutoESURE to help those forward-thinking independent garages through the journey from having little or no knowledge about working on High Voltage vehicles to becoming fully equipped, technically qualified, and fully compliant to work safely and competently on these vehicles.

THE CHALLENGE TO INDEPENDENTS Independent garage owners know the future is electric. They understand they must adapt, introduce new skills to their workshops and in many cases make changes to the way they work. Often the biggest hurdle is where to start, there is so much information and so much pressure

30 WWW.SMTA.CO.UK

to do “something” that to many it just becomes an overwhelming task.

AutoESURE effectively holds the garage owner’s hand and guides them through every stage required to become a fully skilled, fully equipped, compliant and SMTA approved high voltage electric vehicle service centre.

WHAT IS AutoESURE? AutoESURE is an APP that takes you on a journey which is currently the quickest and easiest way to get your garage ready for Electric and Hybrid vehicles by offering a genuine “one stop shop” for all the equipment training and qualifications you need to work safely on EV’s and hybrids.

AutoESURE lays out a clear and concise road map that, if followed, culminates in quick and efficient transformation to an EV approved workshop.

Many of our independent garages have already undergone some form of training to understand the basic workings of EHV’s.

This basic training is simply an introduction to vehicles operating with high voltage systems and is mostly a simple health and safety related overview. It does not mean you are qualified to service and repair these types of vehicles safely and competently.

Although there is no government legislation regulating the car repair industry you still have an obligation under the Electricity at Work Act to ensure you keep your employees safe. Working on EHV’s can be very dangerous as the voltages these vehicles operate under can cause very serious injury or even prove to be fatal!

We will show you what you need to do to gear up to get your garage and your team ready to service and repair EHV’s.

All the PPE, safety equipment and tooling you will need to get you initially started via the recommended specialist supplier of EHV equipment and tooling within the AutoESURE programme.

All Levels of training are available by attending one of our listed training events at Bosch, by contacting your own preferred provider or via the online specialist e-learning partner, you may even be able to get your technicians fully certificated with the relevant IMI qualifications without them being away from your business attending classroom training and without the added travel and accommodation costs.

3 simple steps

GETTING STARTED WITH AutoESURE AutoESURE INTRODUCTION This APP will take you on the journey to guide and help you with everything you need to know and do in order for you to achieve an industry recognised standard of competence and qualifications that you will require to service, maintain and repair high voltage electric and Hybrid vehicles safely and efficiently.

The App will provide you with a direct link to selected industry approved suppliers of the necessary products and services to give you the option to access and/or purchase all of the relevant PPE, tooling, equipment

and online training right up to and including fully certificated IMI qualifications and automatic CPD recording that you will need to set your garage up to work safely and competently on high voltage electric and Hybrid vehicles.

● It is a standard that will enable garages to actively promote a competent service to electric vehicle owners and fleets to meet the legal requirement and expectations of all customer types.

What this means to the employer and business

● It will provide a key element for the business to transition its capability to Electric Vehicle maintenance and repair which in turn supports business sustainability and growth opportunities.

● The standard complies with Electricity at Work regulations, enforced by the Health & Safety Executive in the UK helping garages to meet their corporate responsibility to ensure staff safety.

There are five considerations and four levels of recognition in your journey to achieving the AutoESURE standard

ENTRY LEVEL Familiarity with the basic functions and health & safety requirements for working on or near electric and hybrid vehicles.

LEVEL 1

Carry out non high energy electrical systems work on or near electric and hybrid vehicles

ENTRY LEVEL AutoESURE recommends that to meet the minimum standard of competence all staff undertake the basic familiarisation module provided by the Institute of the Motor Industry.

LEVEL 1 AutoESURE / Garashield recommends that at least one person within the business e.g., receptionist, sales, valeting. Collection and delivery staff undertakes Level 1 IMI accreditation. AutoESURE / Garashield does not mandate a qualification at this level as Accreditation will be sufficient to prove competence.

Carry out non high energy electrical system work on or near electric and hybrid vehicles.

Overview This standard is for people who work on or near electric and hybridvehicles but do not work on the vehicle’s high energy electrical system.

Examples of these job roles include:sales staff, reception staff, cleaners / valeters or vehicle fitters. The standard includes essential knowledge of the hazards

LEVEL 2

Routine Service and maintenance activities.

Minimum level for using the AutoESURE / Garashield system to record the entire job.

LEVEL 3

Electrical and Hybrid Systems. Repair and replacement.

associated with electric and hybrid vehicles and the precautions to follow to avoid these.

Note: This standard does not deem someone competent to maintain, service or repair high energy electrical systems. * To be able to assign work to a technician on the AutoESURE / Garashield system that person must be accredited to a minimum of Level 1 standard.

LEVEL 2 (This is the base minimum qualification standard that a garage must achieve to carry out routine service and maintenance work on hybrid and electric vehicles using the Garashield system) In order to reach the necessary Garashield standard to carry out routine service and maintenance of High Voltage EV and Hybrid vehicles safely and competently you must have at least one light vehicle technician within your business who has achieved level 2 IMI or equivalent industry recognised qualification. (Achieving this standard is the entry level to the IMI TechSafe professional register).

LEVEL 4

Diagnostic Testing and Repair of Electric and Hybrid components.

(Optional)

LEVEL 3 This standard must be achieved in order for a technician to carry out repairs and replacements on hybris and electric vehicle systems.

LEVEL 4 This standard must be achieved in order to carry out diagnosis, testing and repair on electric and hybrid vehicles and components.

Level 4 is an optional course recommended only for those garages who wish to specialise in carrying out repairs to the high voltage system.

EQUIPMENT AND TOOLING AutoESURE / Garashield has specific requirements as the basic minimum levels of PPE, tooling and equipment you will need to achieve each level required. We will provide you with access to our recommended trading partner for the supply of all of the necessary equipment, PPE and appropriate tooling we recommend for getting you EVH ready. You can also access the range of equipment and tooling for any personal preferences.

Bosch Automotive Aftermarket Bosch Automotive TRAINING Aftermarket TECHNICAL

TECHNICAL TRAINING

Future-Proofing Your Business Future-Proofing Your Business with Bosch with Bosch

An Introduction to Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Technology for Workshop Technicians You invited to join Technical Webcast presentation from Boschfor andWorkshop our partners at the SMTA and the IMI, during which we will discuss: Anare Introduction toa Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Technology Technicians You are invited to join a Technical Webcast presentation from Bosch and our partners at the SMTA and the IMI, during which we will discuss:

▶ The HEV Opportunity - Hybrid and Electric Vehicles in the UK aftermarket and equipment required, different levels of accredited training ▶▶ Skills The HEV Opportunity - Hybrid including and Electric Vehicles in the UK aftermarket training optionsrequired, availableincluding ~ digital different (Webcast) and face-to-face ▶▶ Further Skills and equipment levels of accredited training ▶ Further training options available ~ digital (Webcast) and face-to-face At 6:30 p.m. on a choice of 2 dates:

To register, please contact:

At 6:30 p.m.DATES on a choice of 2 dates: AVAILABLE Wednesday 2nd December, or 31 AUGUST 2021 & 04 NOVEMBER 2021 th Wednesday December 2020 Wednesday9 2nd December, or

Email: karen.thompson@smta.co.uk To register, please contact: Office: 331 5510 Email:0131 karen.thompson@smta.co.uk

PRICE FOR SMTA MEMBERS

Office: 0131 331 5510

th Wednesday £499.00 + VAT9 December 2020

DIGITAL PATHWAY TO BECOMING AUTHORISED FOR ELECTRIC

BE PART OF THE FUTURE FOR TRANSPORT ACROSS SCOTLAND AND PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS. AutoESURE WILL LAUNCH SEPTEMBER 2021.

Further details on contract for software App access will be available June 2021.

Register now for advance offers!

32

WWW.SMTA.CO.UK

The future of the automotive industry is changing. We all know that alternative fuelled vehicles will become more and more common place on our roads.

The SMTA’s AUTOESURE programme ensures that Scotland’s electric vehicle drivers are able to locate quality checked maintenance and repair facilities for their electric vehicle, these have been independently tested by us against industry recognised standards for facilities and processes. It is a further requirement of AUTOESURE that businesses employ properly qualified EV technicians who maintain their knowledge on a regular basis.

The programme delivers this to the exact standard we require whilst providing consumer visibility.

Register today to protect tomorrow’s interest email: info@smta.co.uk

UK’S STRONGEST BAT TERY BRANDS.

DEDICATED BRANCH TO SER VICE SCOTLAND NOW AVAILABLE

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GLASGOW BRANCH: Address: Unit B & C, Tay wood Enterprise Centre,Duchess Place, Rutherglen, Glasgow, G73 1DR, UK

LARGE GOODS APPRENTICE

Major brand partners

Quarterly promo�ons

Group buying terms

Direct to you delivery

Single payments via direct debit

Email: norman.s�rling@smta.co.uk Tel: 07917 095014

Join Trading Partners—IT’S FREE!

COMPETITION TIME!!

WIN A £250 GES VOUCHER!! £250 ANSWER THIS QUESTION: What year was the MOT Test introduced??

Want to become an MOT test station or upgrade to a connected bay – call Niall Farmer

PREVIOUS WINNERS

SIMPLY EMAIL YOUR ANSWER TO norman.stirling@smta.co.uk Need help? Please call Niall Farmer of GES Scotland on 07483 827734 The small print; no purchase necessary, free to enter draw, no alternative price will be offered, closing date for submission 30th June 2021 – A winner will be by ‘random selection’ picked by the SMTA Chief Executive presented by the end of July 2021, please ensure contact details are on the email – the winner will be notified by email. Voucher provided courtesy of Niall Farmer of GES Scotland.

Competition entry only open to those businesses in current membership of the SMTA and SMTA staff are excluded.

MARKET INSIGHT

by Katie Fitzjohn, Legal Advisor at Lawgistics

REPAIR GARAGES BEWARE! HAVE YOU EXERCISED REASONABLE CARE AND SKILL?

When a trader agrees to carry out a service or repair for a consumer, Section 49 of the Consumer Rights Act 2015 implies the term that the service is to be carried out with “reasonable care and skill”.

THE RIGHT TO A PRICE REDUCTION The right to a price reduction entitles the consumer to require the trader to reduce the price of the service by an appropriate amount. This can include a full refund of the amount paid for the service. Although a consumer cannot recover the same loss twice, the following additional or alternative remedies may also be available to the consumer: 1. Damages 2. Seeking to recover money paid where the consideration for payment of the money has failed 3. Requesting specific performance 4. Wanting an order for specific implement 5. Relying on the breach against a claim by the trader under the contract 6. Exercising a right to treat the contract as at an end

36 WWW.SMTA.CO.UK

The legal test typically applied to establish whether the reasonable care and skill standard has been adhered to is known as the “Bolam test” deriving from case of Bolam v Friern Hospital Management Committee [1957] 1 WLR 582, HL, 586. Although the Bolam test arose from an English clinical negligence case, it has been applied across a range of other professional industries and is highly relevant in Scotland.

The test looks at the standard of the ordinary skilled person in exercising and professing to have that particular special skills set.

In the event of a dispute arising regarding the standard of service carried out, the question a repairing garage will have to answer is essentially this…

“Did the repairing garage exercise the ordinary skills of an ordinary competent repairing garage?”

A dispute will often arise where a trader carries out a repair, then several months and thousands of miles later, the consumer experiences a similar issue to the one previously repaired. The consumer may typically claim you carried out a negligent repair, misdiagnosed the issue or carried out a “cheap fix”.

Accordingly, they may seek reimbursement of the previous repair and/or for any further repairs required. Unfortunately, consumers do not always fully comprehend the fact that motor vehicles are complex and upon rectification of one issue, further issues which

were not previously diagnosable may come to light at a later stage. However, this does not automatically equate to a breach of the implied term.

EXPERT EVIDENCE IS USUALLY REQUIRED TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE REQUIRED STANDARD HAS BEEN MET. It is essential that as a repairing garage, you retain any evidence relating to diagnostic tests and checks carried out and keep a record of any advice given to the consumer upon completion of a service or repair.

If a trader falls below the required standard and is found to be in breach of the implied term, the consumer affected by the breach will be entitled to the following remedies:

THE RIGHT TO REPEAT PERFORMANCE The right to repeat performance requires the trader to carry out the service again so that performance is in conformity with the contract.

It may not always be possible for a trader to carry out a repeat performance and as such, the following alternative remedy may be available.

For more information call 01480 455500 or visit www.lawgistics.co.uk

S M R C U P D AT E

SCOTTISH MOTOR TRADE ASSOCIATION CONTINUE C1 CUP We’re very pleased to announce that the Scottish Motor Trade Association (SMTA) will continue their support as official sponsor of the Scottish C1 Cup in 2021.

The SMTA is the representative body for the motor trade in Scotland with over 1,400 member motor groups and garages, across all corners of the country. They have supported the Scottish C1 Cup for the past two seasons, helping to keep the entry fee’s as low as possible for this budget series which has been successful in introducing so many new drivers to the club since its inception in 2019.

Last year the SMTA Scottish C1 Cup continued to grow in popularity, despite the Covid-19 pandemic, becoming the most well participated championship

Commenting on the continuation of this partnership SMTA Chief Executive, Sandy Burgess, said: “The SMTA is delighted to continue our support of this grass routes entry to the exciting world of motor sport in Scotland with the added bonus of the “away round” in this year’s championship. We look forward to some close and exciting racing which, fingers tightly crossed, we may even manage to welcome some spectators to in the not-too-distant future!”

For further information on the SMTA, visit: www.smta.co.uk

on the SMRC calendar with grids growing to an average of 24 cars.

Early indications are that 2021 will be another stellar year for the C1 Cup, particularly as it will feature the championships first ever away round when drivers visit Lincolnshire’s Cadwell Park in September.

Once again, the championship will feature regularly in the SMTA’s member magazine which goes out to over 4,500 garages across the motor trade sector in Scotland.

Images courtesy of Jim Moir © Jim Moir 2021

WWW.SMTA.CO.UK

37

MAINTAIN AE STANDARDS

CERTIFICATE PROVIDED

COMPETITIVE PARTS PRICING DEPARTMENT APPRENTICE

OVER LARGE GOODS 800 QMS’ APPRENTICE PER ANNUM

EXCEEDS PAINT DVSA TECHNICIAN STANDARDS

In‐depth examina�on of all aspects of the MOT scheme

Structured to suit individual business needs Assist Authorised Examiners to maintain DVSA standards

QMS site assessments exceeds minimum requirements as set by DVSA for quality control Protect your income for less than the price of one MOT per month

Why use SMTA QMS? Currently we carry out over 800 QMS surveys per annum! Par�cipa�on in the QMS programme and adhering to its standards should also substan�ally reduce the likelihood for DVSA to consider taking disciplinary ac�on against a Vehicle Tes�ng Sta�on. However, if an incident necessita�ng this was to occur, then evidence of measures taken

by Authorised Examiners to apply standards that exceed DVSA’s minimum standards would be taken into consider‐ a�on and could lead to a reduc�on in the severity of any sanc�on imposed. SMTA members also benet from free representa�on and appeals assistance, others will charge you addi�onal costs for this service.

Email: david.innes@smta.co.uk Tel: 07789 264228

Ask about our QMS service today!

MARKET INSIGHT

by David Innes, MOT QMS Team

MOT QUALITY MANAGEMENT SERVICES The support services provided by our MOT QMS (Quality Management Services) Team are amongst the most widely used by Scottish Motor Trade Association members. At the heart of this is a Quality Management programme for Vehicle Testing Stations.

By conducting detailed and comprehensive VTS assessments, QMS Team consultants can quickly identify which MOT related activities are carried out to an acceptable standard, identify those that could be improved with slight process changes, and highlight activities that fail to satisfy DVSA requirements or that give cause for concern.

Also included as part of the Quality Management assessment is a Tester quality check. This is usually by observation of a live MOT Test, but can also be by re-examination of a recently tested vehicle. This service is particularly helpful for single-tester sites who find

it difficult to implement Quality Control measures that satisfy DVSA requirements, of for those who simply want an independent and impartial assessment of testing standards at their Vehicle Testing Station.

Applying Quality Management programme standards should leave most Vehicle Testing Stations wellplaced to gain a ‘Green’ risk rating (assigned by DVSA) and should put them in a position where it becomes less likely that they will find themselves the subject of unwanted DVSA attention.

degrees of experience in MOT Testing, VTS Management and Enforcement roles and like regular MOT Testers, keep up to date with DVSA standards by completing Tester Annual Training & Assessment each year.

Excluding operational restrictions placed upon us by COVID-19, our team, consisting of David Innes (Operations Manager), Support Services Consultants Colin Meldrum & Gordon Laing, and Independent Consultant Bill Allan, have the capacity to carry out approximately 1,200 assessments per year.

Contact details Colin Meldrum: 07917 042576 E: colin.meldrum@smta.co.uk Gordon Laing: 07799 732124 E: gordon.laing@smta.co.uk

Our consultants are all ‘MOT Trained’, have considerable and varying

Gordon Laing

Colin Meldrum WWW.SMTA.CO.UK 39

MERCEDES ENGINE COOLING FAN RUNNING AT CONSTANT HIGH SPEED Make: Mercedes Models: W204 C Class, W207 and W212 E Class, GLK Class

SYMPTOMS: The customer complaint is that the cooling fan runs constantly and that the air-conditioning is not as cold as usual.

TECH INSIGHT Welcome to our first technical content created with the support of the IVS 360 OEM-Trained Master Technicians at Opus IVS to whom we are very grateful. Here we plan to highlight some of the more common recent faults that our partners have come across in their workshops and of course provide you with the appropriate fixes. We will publish more technical fixes within the members content pages of our new updated website which is due for launch by the end of the Summer.

We are always reviewing our content and please feel free to get in touch if you feel that there is something you would like to see in future editions of SMTA AutoINSIGHT.

PROVIDED BY

● Pin 1 - Ground (Circuit 31) ● Pin 2 - Signal. Reference values: ● 0 bar - 400mV ● 10 bar - 1.3V ● 30 bar - 4V

CAUSE: This problem is often caused by a faulty pressure sensor located on the air-conditioning condenser. If accessing fault codes, there are no relevant DTCs stored in the engine control module (ECM) or signal acquisition module (SAM).

DIAGNOSIS: Use your Opus IVS device: ● Run a Quick Test to check for any relevant fault codes. ● If there are none, check actual values in the air-conditioning control module: AIRCONDITIONING >> ACTUAL VALUES >> CLIMATE CONTROL Look at refrigerant pressure, specially noting if it too high for the ambient temperatures.

For example, at a coolant temperature of 51.0°C (123.8°F) the refrigerant pressure should be no more than 12 bar. If it is higher, the air-conditioning control module presumes that the pressure is high and assigns the fan control module to run at 90% PWM actuation.

Also check the AAC pressure at stand still / cold. This should be approximately 5 - 6 bar.

ELECTRICAL CHECKS: Confirm that there are no wiring issues to the sensor.

40 WWW.SMTA.CO.UK

Check the power supply, signal and ground of the 3-pin connector at the pressure sensor:

● Pin 3 - 5V supply feed Confirm electrical line resistances to the SAM using the appropriate wiring diagram.

REPAIR: If electrical checks return results that are within specifications, replace the pressure sensor.

Before replacing, first fully evacuate the air-conditioning system.

Caution: Evacuate the airconditioning system of all R134a gas before the system is opened.

There is no Schraeder valve on the sensor and removing the sensor allows the gas to escape into the atmosphere.

Replace the sensor and confirm good location of the wiring connector. Locate wiring in order to avoid chafing of harnesses.

Use your DrivePro device to check the reading in the climate control module. As the system is still currently empty, this should read 0 bar.

Fill the system with the specified amount of refrigerant and oil.

Capacity information is found on the AAC refrigerant fill sticker, located under the engine hood (bonnet).

Confirm that there are no leaks at the sensor, that the air-conditioning is operating as expected and that the fan no longer runs at a constant high speed.

Finally use the AssistPlus to run a Quick Test and ensure there are no new fault codes.

BMW REMOTE CENTRAL LOCKING FAILS FROM THE REMOTE FOB

LAND ROVER FREELANDER 2 NON START

Make: BMW Models: E61 ( - ) All and E91 ( - ) All:

Make: Land Rover Models: Freelander 2 (2007 – 2010):

SYMPTOMS: Remote Central Locking fails from the Remote Fob

POSSIBLE CAUSES: The wiring is broken going through boot loom.

The CAS module has failed.

The Diversity Unit has failed or is full of water.

REPAIR: 1. Check that the Central locking works by pressing button in the vehicle.

2. Access to the Diversity Unit is under the boot spoiler.

With access to the Diversity Unit please check for water ingress in and around the unit.

3. Check the 12 volt supply to the Diversity module (E61 pin 1) (E91 pin 6). If you do not have 12v on (E61 pin 1) (E91 pin 6) we have to suspect broken wires in the Right hand hinge loom. All wiring repairs will involve disconnecting the Right hand loom and pulling it in through to the boot area via the Right hand roof speaker.

4. Check the signal line at the diversity module with the connector plugged in (E61 pin 2) (E91 pin 3). With a Multimeter check for 4.8v approx. on that line then press the unlock or lock button on the remote fob.

The Multimeter voltage should now fluctuate to

show the message is being sent to the CAS module.

You could use an LED test probe and watch for the LED flashing when the unlock and lock buttons are pressed. If there is a signal fluctuation or LED flash it suggests the Diversity unit is working.

5. Please now gain access to the CAS and check for the same signal change at pin 33. If there is a signal fluctuation or LED flash at pin 33 it suggests the Diversity unit and the signal line are OK and the CAS is the issue.

6. If you have 4.8v at (E61 pin 2) (E91 pin 3) but do not get a signal change it could be the Key or diversity unit at fault. Please repeat signal testing using a Donor key, as long as it is the same style of key it will generate a signal fluctuation/LED flash. If with the Donor key you get a signal fluctuation or LED flash then the customer will need a new key. If not then the Diversity unit is at fault.

SYMPTOMS: The customer complaint is that the vehicle does not start and that ‘steering column locked’ is shown on dash.

CAUSE: Steering column lock has failed.

If reconfiguring the car does not bring the lock back to life, check the wiring: Strip the steering cowling and under-dash trim to gain access to the steering column lock. It can be identified by the wires in the 4-way plug to the module, which are as follows:

REPAIR:

Pin 2 = green and orange wire

Check for fault codes using the DrivePro/AssistPlus

Pin 3 = black and purple wire

Check vehicle configuration to see if the steering column lock has been disabled:

Check the wiring as follows:

Use EDIT VEHICLE CONFIGURATION option on the AssistPlus.

Pin 4 wire is the LIN communication wire, so it should have 6 - 11 volts when operating correctly. (See scope trace below).

Follow onscreen instructions and go to page 3 of 5 on the device. The top option will be

Pin 2 wire should pulse 12 v when the key is inserted into the starter control unit.

Pin 4 = grey and blue wire

Pin 3 wire is ground.

7. If you do not have 4.8v present on (E61 pin 2) (E91 pin 3) it indicates a faulty/ broken wire. Please check continuity between pin 33 at CAS to (E61 pin 2) (E91 pin 3).

TOOLS: ● Multimeter ● Soldering iron ● BMW AOS system for wiring diagrams ● Led test probe ● Trim tools ● Wire strippers ● Wire cutters ● BMW crimp connectors

for your steering column lock. If it says ‘Undefined’, edit this and change it to ‘Fitted’.

Code the lock to the car by pressing PROGRAM. See page 5 on the AssistPlus.

If wiring results are as expected, fit a new steering column lock module.

Code new lock using the DrivePro: FREELANDER 2 2007 - 2010 >> BODY >> BODY CONTROL MODULE >> SPECIAL FUNCTIONS Configure new steering column module and follow the onscreen instructions.

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41

W H AT ’ S I N M Y GA RAG E

by Adrian Smith, SMTA Director and Past President

Having had a Swedish Saab car dealership for close on 30 years, meant that I saw the brand morph into several guises until its demise in 2011.

I am pleased to say that I still have got several Saabs including the iconic 900 Turbo 16S built in 1989. Now referred to as the Classic 900, it is the shape that most people have in their minds when mentioning Saab. The mid 80’s saw Saab GB embark on a marketing campaign on TV with adverts which said “Imagine the feeling, driving a car, built by a plane maker” – at that time Saab were building aircraft, military and civilian.

One day I took a phone call from a gentleman in Kirkcaldy who said he had the registration number FLY 900T on his Cortina. He said that he’d heard that the Saab 900 Turbo was a flying machine, and would I like to purchase the number plate? Later that day he was headed back to Kirkcaldy with different number plates on his Cortina and cash in his pocket.

FLY 900T was then on many Saab 900 Turbo’s over the years. With the advent of DVLA selling number plates I decided to get the reverse number T900 FLY which was used by my son, an airline pilot. When the 09 plates came out in 2009, TO09 FLY was acquired purely for the fun factor.

So, the Saab’s in some detail: FLY 900T is a 1989 900 Turbo 16S with a 2.0 DOHC 16V engine producing 175hp. It is a traditional Saab with the key going into the ignition in between the front seats and reverse has to be engaged to take the key out. Then there is T900 FLY, a

42 WWW.SMTA.CO.UK

2008 9-3 (the 900’s became 9-3’s) Convertible 2.8 Turbo V6 with 275hp and finally TO09 FLY is a 2010 9-3 2.0 Turbo XWD – a scarce car with the Haldex 4 wheel drive (Saab called it ‘crosswheel drive’) and 240hp.

Performance is a relative term of course but they each have the renowned Saab characteristics of sporty handling and good roadholding. Going round a frozen lake in northern Sweden with a temperature of minus 25 doing 100mph with Erik Carlsson at the wheel of a 9000 Aero was a great demonstration of the handling. Time does of course move at a pace in the motor industry and the Saab power outputs and equipment levels and abilities are nowhere near to what is available today. Having said that each has been modified in various ways and you can even play music from iPhone/iPod in FLY 900T! It surprises many people when you say that new Saab’s can’t be bought now. It is 10 years this December since Saab, in its final form, filed for bankruptcy. The reason Saab failed? Well, everyone has their opinions, but amongst other things (no space here!), in reality they were too small and did not have the critical mass of volume to give the returns required for future investment in new models. They had two types, the 9-3 and the 9-5, with variations of course, but compared to the competition at the time, Saab’s offering was inadequate, which makes driving them now all the more special. Flying machines in their own way...

Saab TO09 FLY

Saab FLY 900T

Saab T900 FLY

“Imagine the feeling, driving a car, built by a plane maker” - at that time Saab were building aircraft, military and civilian.

Have you got something to sell? SMTA Members can advertise here for free.

Contact karen.thomson@smta.co.uk for details.

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

AUCHENCAIRN GARAGE GARAGE PREMISES, BUSINESS AND THREE BEDROOM HOUSE IN SOUTH WEST SCOTLAND. LONG ESTABLISHED MOTOR VEHICLE REPAIR BUSINESS. Workshop with two ramps (all in-service date) with all tools, specials tools and equipment (three phases electrics). Mig welder with air fed mask, plasma cutter, four-wheel alignment, bearing press and kit, coil spring compressor, trolley jacks, transmissions jacks, axle stands, heater (multi-fuel) pressure washer, fire extinguishers and LED Lighting.

L arge 3 bedroom house with LPG heating, double glazing and garden T yre shop with tyre changer, wheel balancer, tyre stock, large lathe and vertical compressor L arge yard with Autogas retail unit (autogas at cost - only outlet for 25 miles) L arge workshop with dry pit O ffice building with air source heating, computer systems with garage programs

F orecourt with petrol/DERV pumps (currently not in use, still licensed) used for sales cars at present All covered by CCTV The business has a large customer base, very large turnover & huge potential For sale as going concern and with current staff Motor Vehicles Land Rover Discovery V8 lpg (recovery) Bateson tilt bed recovery trailer (3500kg) Honda Jazz (loan Car) Nissan Note (loan Car) Genuine sale due to ill health and impending retirement

Get in touch today by calling: 07860 543292

100% COVID PROTECTION GUARANTEE!

FEMALES IN FOCUS EVENT 24TH SEPTEMBER 2021 NORTON HOUSE HOTEL, EDINBURGH The event will be hosted by Alison Walker, Alison has more than 20 years of experience working with the BBC in television and radio and she will be facilitating discussions with our panel of guest speakers which includes the winner of the inaugural Nan Lindsay Award: MaryAnne McNaughton of Central Car Auctions. £350 +VAT

Table of 8 Individual Tickets (this includes a three-course lunch and a glass of wine on arrival!)

£50 +VAT

Please note: this event is open to SMTA members and non-members.

MAN RECOVERY TRUCK, 2007, 7.5 GVW MOT until November 2021 All in good clean working condition, Roger Dyson Tilt and Slide Body, LED Light Bar, Super Winch, Spec Lift Available Call 01343 544308 for more details

100% COVID PROTECTION GUARANTEE!

SMTA ANNUAL DINNER 2021 INCLUDING CAR STAR AWARDS 28TH OCTOBER 2021 HILTON GLASGOW HOTEL, GLASGOW

We are pleased to announce that our Annual Dinner and CAR Star Awards Event returns in 2021 at the newly refurbished Hilton Glasgow Hotel ballroom. Another highlight of the evening will be our guest speaker Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Edwards.

EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT OFFER If booked before 31/07/21

Table of 10

£999 +VAT

Individual Tickets

£105 +VAT

(After this date, tables will be £1249 +VAT; individual tickets will be £130)

TO BOOK OR FIND OUT MORE

TO BOOK OR FIND OUT MORE

Contact Karen Thompson on Tel: 07922 079889 E: karen.thompson@smta.co.uk

Contact Karen Thompson on Tel: 07922 079889 E: karen.thompson@smta.co.uk

SUPPORT THIS EVENT

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

To find out how your business can support this event and have exposure at just £250 contact Wendy Hennessy on Tel: 07974 380140 E: wendy.hennessy@smta.co.uk

offering a wide range of benefits including tables at the dinner start from £2750. For details contact Wendy Hennessy on Tel: 07974 380140 E: wendy.hennessy@smta.co.uk

WWW.SMTA.CO.UK 43

MARKET INSIGHT

by Pauline Hughes, Solicitor, Just Employment Law

HOW TO DEAL WITH FLEXIBLE WORKING REQUESTS AS WE EMERGE FROM LOCKDOWN Since March 2020, many of us have worked from home due to the pandemic.

Employers have had to adapt quickly to the new world of remote working to ensure that those who could work from home, could do so.

Whilst there remains a question as to when the government will allow workplaces to return with their full staff complement, many employees have demonstrated that they can work effectively from home. It therefore appears that demand for flexible working is here to stay.

The question then becomes, how would an employee request to work from home on a permanent basis?

In order to change their working pattern, employees who have at least 26 weeks’ service have the statutory right to make a flexible working request. Any request should be in writing, be dated, confirm that it is being made under the statutory procedure, specify the change(s) that the employee would

44 WWW.SMTA.CO.UK

like to make to their existing working pattern and when they would like this to take effect, outline the effect, if any, the employee considers the change would have on the employer and how this could be addressed and, as an employee can only make one flexible working request in any 12-month period, whether the employee has previously made any flexible working requests to the employer.

When an employer receives a flexible working request, they must deal with the request in a reasonable manner and notify the employee of the decision, including the decision on any appeal, within three months of the date on which the request is made, unless any longer period has been agreed with the employee. It is best practice for the employer to arrange to speak with the employee, allowing the employee to be accompanied to any meeting with a fellow worker, as soon as possible after receiving their request. If the employer wishes to refuse any request, they must have a prescribed business reason for doing so. There are eight specific grounds for rejecting a request

are set out in law and include the inability to reorganise work among existing staff. If the employee’s request is rejected, they should be given the right to appeal against the decision.

That being so, an employer should act with care before rejecting a flexible working request or having a blanket policy whereby all employees must return to the office. This is particularly so where a request is being made is to manage an employee’s health condition and/ or to look after young children, as there is a risk that refusing such a request could amount to indirect disability or sex discrimination.

As employment law specialists with expertise in drafting flexible working procedures and advising employers who receive flexible working requests, Just Employment Law can help you deal effectively with requests for flexible working.

If you are interested in learning more about Just Employment Law or our services, please contact us on 0141 331 5150 or at enquiries@ justemploymentlaw.co.uk.

MARKET INSIGHT

by Lauren Wilson, Solicitor, Just Employment Law

THE CORONAVIRUS VACCINE CONSIDERATIONS FOR EMPLOYERS

To what extent can employers require staff to get vaccinated?

Whilst employers cannot force staff to get vaccinated, since employees must consent to any medical intervention, this does not necessarily mean that employers cannot ever introduce a rule or policy requiring employees to get vaccinated.

Whether it is reasonable to do so will depend on the nature of the employer’s business and the roles of individual employees.

A reasonable employer seeking to require its staff to be vaccinated should: ● Ensure staff can say why they might not want or be able to comply; ● Consider objections/refusals on a case-by-case basis; and ● Be particularly cautious where the employee’s reluctance could be linked to a protected characteristic, such as age, religion, pregnancy or disability.

Employers are unlikely to be able to take a ‘one size fits all’ approach and should take legal advice before proceeding.

HOW TO INTRODUCE MANDATORY VACCINATION Instruction The quickest and simplest way is to issue a communication to advise employees that they will be expected to get vaccinated unless they have good reason not to, and of what action may be taken against anyone who unreasonably refuses.

Employers who recognise a trade union may need to negotiate the introduction of mandatory vaccination with them first. For other businesses, it would be sensible to consult with your workforce in advance.

Whether it will be reasonable to discipline or dismiss staff who are unable or unwilling to be vaccinated, will depend on individual circumstances. It is not guaranteed that an employee making a personal decision not to be vaccinated is committing an act of “misconduct”. Such matters are yet to be tested in the Employment Tribunals or courts.

Contractual requirement Employers with a compelling basis to require staff to be vaccinated might seek to amend employment contracts to add a provision which requires them to be vaccinated.

This would place an employee who refused in material breach of contract, arguably entitling the employer to discipline or dismiss. Again, the lawfulness of doing so remains uncertain. Accordingly, the individual reasons for non-compliance should be considered before doing so.

The employer should make clear in the contract when the requirement to accept a vaccine would not apply.

Any such changes to employment contracts would have to be agreed in advance with employees or their recognised trade union.

TREATMENT OF VACCINATED VS NON-VACCINATED STAFF There are likely to be some social distancing measures in place in our society for the foreseeable future. Therefore, having a different set of rules for vaccinated staff from non-vaccinated staff is unlikely to be workable in terms of health and safety.

Under employment law, the risks in treating vaccinated staff differently from nonvaccinated staff are significant.

TIME OFF FOR VACCINATION There is no general right to time off to attend a COVID vaccination appointment.

However, it is good practice to allow employees to attend appointments during working hours.

Employers should consider whether the employee has a protected characteristic which would make it important for them to be vaccinated when deciding whether to refuse the time off and should be as consistent as possible in dealing with requests.

If you require support or advice on any employment law matters, please contact Just Employment Law on 0141 331 5150.

WWW.SMTA.CO.UK 45

YEAR END CAR FIGURES 2021 FUEL TYPE YEAR TO DATE APRIL 2021 REGISTRATIONS BY REGION

Petrol

28,808

Diesel

8,769

Petrol/Electric

5,392

12,151 537

Diesel/Electric

40

Petrol/LPG

92

=

1,191

662

45,955

4,269

Ford

3,638 3,567

Vauxhall

3,042

BMW

2,778

Toyota

2,672

Mercedes

2,615

Peugeot Land Rover Kia

2,534 2,406 2,202

204

9.29%

7.92% 7.76%

6.62%

6.05% 5.81%

5.69% 5.51%

5.24%

4.79%

TOP SELLING

MARQUES YTD 2021 46 WWW.SMTA.CO.UK

Lothian

140

4,500

Volkswagen

Fife

1,635

2,250

Tayside

6,062

Strathclyde

567,108 Audi

845

875

Central

TOTAL UK CAR MARKET:

0

Highlands

Grampian

2,854

Electric

Summary

Total Scotland

Borders

Dumfries & Galloway

0

950

1,900

1,795

Vauxhall Corsa

1,379

Ford Fiesta

1,103

Mercedes A Class

943

Ford Puma

889

Mini Mini

849

Kia Sportage Land Rover Range Rover Evoque

Peugeot 2008

830 780

Volkswagen Tiguan

765

Ford Focus

760

YEAR TO DATE

TOP 10 CARS Figures courtesy of SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders)

THE PERFECT PARTNER FOR YOUR FLEET. Textar brake friction products for commercial vehicles.

The Textar commercial vehicle range is complemented by a full range of brake discs, accessories and wear indicators. And with Textar, every product comes with the assurance of total quality, maximum safety and ultimate reliability. Trust in Textar.

WWW.SMTA.CO.UK 47

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SCOTSURE

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Ask about a Scotsure Warranty today!

SCOTSURE

WARRANTY SCOTSURE Scotsure has a strong reputation for customer service and is administered entirely from our offices in South Queensferry.

Ask about a Scotsure Warranty today!

WARRANTY

Scottish Motor Trade Association

SCOTSURE

Scottish Motor Trade Association

WARRANTY

Scottish Motor Trade Association