Focus | December

VIZION NETWORK MAGAZINE

VIZION FOCUS

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FOREWORD Over a month has passed since Vizion Ignite and we are still receiving great feedback for what is being labelled the industry event of the year, it has been truly overwhelming and makes the months of preparation and organisation worthwhile.

People who attended the conference heard first-hand the continuing success of Vizion and the commitment to reinvest in people, solutions and a genuine goal to improve the industry and how people perceive it.

It is a commonly held perception that the collision industry has traditionally been slow to embrace new technologies.

A perception that is so surprising because it has been technological advance that has made Vizion what it is. Without technology, it simply would

an advanced booking system underpinned by sophisticated technologies will place customers in the heart of the decision making.

Through using pioneering intelligent claim and repair systems, Vizion repairers will be better equipped to meet the needs of their customers, and the industry as a whole.

We will be better equipped to ensure the safety and quality of repairers, improving processes more efficiently than ever before.

These are however just words unless collectivley the network and its members embrace change and use the tools and opportunities provided to them not be possible to achieve the quality and success that today’s network needs.

We should not ignore either the human benefit of improving technology – not just for customers and work providers, but for repairers to. At the moment we are witnessing an exciting revolution in the collision industry and it is as important as ever to be part of it.

Alongside these improvements, customer experience should also be front and centre of the solution. For example, Vizion’s Oculus and Triage+,

However, these are just words unless collectively the network and its members embrace change and use the tools and opportunities provided to them.

Cortex is constantly in a state of change, upgrading, updating and refreshing tools based on member feedback and upgrades to ensure Vizion Members have access to the very latest technology.

Marcus Laird Director of Digital Innovation and Development White Room Consortium

IN THIS ISSUE 6.............One Vizion, One Network 10...........Confex 2017 14...........Time to Shine 16...........Our Crowning Glory 18...........Introducing The Embankment 22...........The Voices of Ignite 28...........Igniting the Creative Vizion 40...........Using your Camera Phone 42...........Why E-Learning 44...........Cromax Online Learning Tool 46...........Iconic Racing Helmets 48...........U-Pol Rapid Clearcoat 50...........HPI Crush Watch 52...........Subaru Eyesight 54...........Electric Vehicle Charging 56...........Mini Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 60...........Mercedes-Benz Concept X-Class 64...........Audi updates the Q5 68...........Practical Ford Hot Hatches 72...........DB11 Wins T3 Design of the Year 74...........Ice Driving Academy 76...........SVO’s Centre of Excellence 82...........VW Golf – The Update 86...........Volvo – Tech Brand of the Year

BUILT FOR YOU An innovation lab. A business Incubator. Cortex, the innovative repairer and partner hub offers a unique ecosystem of resources, interactive tools, and reporting opportunities to grow the positive impact of your work.

Joining Vizion’s diverse community of repairers, Vizionaries , partners and associates, Cortex will enable you to develop your repair process resources, improve your online presence and provide customers with the best possible service every step of the way.

Focus is Vizion’s digital magazine aimed at repairers, associates and partners of Vizion. If you would like to be involved then call Marcus on 07917 667510 Conceived, Produced and Designed by Pure Visual Communication Limited

DECEMBER 2016

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ONE VIZION, ONE NETWORK, ALWAYS INNOVATIVE, ALWAYS VIZIONARY, ALWAYS TOGETHER…

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TIME TO SHINE

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HPI CRUSH WATCH

AND SO IT BEGINS VIZION CONFEX 2017

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IGNITING THE CREATIVE VIZION

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ELECTRIFYING

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THE FIRST TRUE PREMIUM PICKUP

VIZION FOCUS

ONE VIZION, ONE NETWORK, ALWAYS INNOVATIVE, ALWAYS VIZIONARY, ALWAYS TOGETHER… After months of planning and organisation, over 860 delegates attended Ignite which was to be the best Vizion confex yet.

Returning to the aptly named Engine Room in Donington, Vizion welcomed over 860 delegates from all sectors of the automotive industry and 73 exhibitors ranging from new start-ups to established international companies.

The conference addressed important issues regarding the development of technology with both Vizion and the automotive sector, highlighting challenges, perspectives and best practices in future systems, the catalytic role of Vizion members and partners, the role of online tools as an indispensable tool for the repair cycle and better customer practices and efficiency.

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The use of technology is increasing day by day, we all depend on technology and we use various technologies to accomplish specific tasks in our lives.

It does not matter which industry you are dealing in, technology will be of use in a certain manner, so embracing it and learning how to use technology in whatever we do is very important and recommended. As the world keeps on developing, technology will be changed, what is working today might not work or be efficient tomorrow. So it is better to stay up-to-date with new emerging technologies and

learn how to embrace and use them in your daily life.

The conference keynotes reflected this technology evolution, that the industry can no longer hide behind traditional methods and process’s and that the future is now.

With a review of the last year, Chris started the presentation with “2016, another great year for the network”, with growth and innovation being a large part of Vizion’s blueprint, they have also addressed large scale planning and future planning to ensure Vizion remain ahead of the game and provide financial stability.

Continued growth of the network in line with claims volume and predicted future needs, expansion therefore reinforcing the Vizion solution.

Chris also officially announced the acquisition of the NFU claims centre in Wellingborough.

15000 square foot, spread over 3 floors, allowing for an increase in Vizion’s capacity for a further 250 staff.

A substantial next step for Vizion, that will encompass research and development, new systems, progression management with seamless business continuity.

Another key announcement from Chris was the ‘Digital Journey of Choice’ giving the customer the control to choose their own path and timeline, Vizion’s already in the latter stages of ENOL. This will raise the bar for repairers to improve their NPs and star ratings as this can affect the customer’s choice of repairer. All of this is provided on easy to access tech.

it to the forefront on every part of the repair process to improve customer experience, to improve quality of repair and to make all our work lives easier, more efficient, more profitable... not so much a revolution...more evolution.

The feedback from every part of the day has been positive and we hope that everyone who attended saw the passion, the tenacity and belief that the Vizion Network has, as it continues to grow from strength to strength.

Next year’s event is already in the planning stage and if you would like to be part of the biggest industry event yet then get in touch with Marcus on 07917 667510.

If there’s one thing to take from the overall event is that technology is now an integral part of the industry and it’s process’s, and Vizion, with its partner WRC, are bringing

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VIZION FOCUS

HOW WAS IT FOR YOU? Feedback is important, and we use this to improve the next event.

Please click here to leave your feedback, suggestions and comments.

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VIEW THE EVENT PHOTOS ON VIZION’S FACEBOOK

Thanks for making me feel so welcome at the Vizion Conference.

I thought there was great positive energy in the room and an industry that’s keen on reinvention.

QUENTIN WILLSON 9

VIZION FOCUS

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AND SO IT BEGINS. VIZION’S CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION 2017

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Next year will see the 4th Vizion Conference and Exhibition in October.

Bigger, better and more opportunities for our exhibitors, sponsors and partners.

Want to be involved? The search has begun for exhibitors, sponsors and contributors to make next year’s event the best yet.

Ready to inspire? If you know someone who belongs at our annual or regional events, or if you belong there yourself, we want to hear from you!

To be involved in next year’s event contact Marcus on 07917 667510 marcus@whiteroomconsortium.com

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VIZION FOCUS

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VIEW THE EVENT PHOTOS ON VIZION’S FACEBOOK

Just to say the Vizion Ignite Conference was excellent. Good content. Inspiring.

Professional.

Well done to you and the team DAVE HOLLEY HOLLEY AUTOBODIES

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VIZION FOCUS

TIME TO SHINE

Being recognised with a Vizion Shine Award is one of the highest accolades a

can receive from Vizion, an award for excellence and a true representation o

Each of our winners were selected for their representation of the Vizion brand tools provided by Vizion and overall commitment to the repair process and q

This year the awards took it to another level with the introduction of awards from

Congratulations to our winner

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a repairer

of quality.

values, use of the quality of service.

m our key providers.

rs!

Region One Bodyshop of the Year 2016

BENNETTS OF EDINBURGH Region Two Bodyshop of the Year 2016

NORTHERN ACCIDENT REPAIR ROCHDALE Region Three Bodyshop of the Year 2016

JS HOLMES LTD Region Four Bodyshop of the Year 2016

RGM VEHICLE BODY REPAIRS LTD Region Five Bodyshop of the Year 2016

DK AUTOS (ALDERSHOT) LTD UK and Ireland Manufacturer Bodyshop of the Year 2016

COOPER SUNDERLAND ARC UK and Ireland Bodyshop of the Year 2016

NORTHERN ACCIDENT REPAIR ROCHDALE Best Use of Cortex in the Delivery of Customer Service 2016

DK AUTOS (ALDERSHOT) LTD Customer Service Score League Champions 2016

STEVE MELLOR ACCIDENT REPAIR CENTRE AXA Customer Service Award 2016

DK AUTOS (ALDERSHOT) LTD SwiftCover Customer Service Award 2016

RGM VEHICLE BODY REPAIRS NFU Mutual Customer Service Award 2016

JS HOLMES LTD Markerstudy Group Customer Service Award 2016

TRUSTFORD HUDDERSFIELD Zenith Marque Customer Service Award 2016

KYNASTON AUTOBODIES Relive the Shine awards presentations, head over to Cortex to see the video.

CORTEX. BUILT FOR YOU.

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VIZION FOCUS

OUR CROWNING GLORY

VIZION. A MULTI-AWARD WINNING SOLUTION Vizion have won awards and industry recognition for innovation and for the ability to solve previously unsolvable problems and issues across the repair industry. We would like to say a most genuine thank you to our team, partners and suppliers, not forgetting all the people who work behind the scenes to make Vizion what it is today.

All you’ve done and continue to do to make Vizion not only a force for positive change but something unique on a daily basis‌ THANK YOU

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VIZION FOCUS

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INTRODUCING THE EMBANKMENT VIZION ANNOUNCED THE ACQUISITION OF THE NFU MUTUAL CLAIMS CENTRE IN WELLINGBOROUGH AT THE EVENT, 15,000 SQFT, 3 FLOORS WITH A CAPACITY FOR 250 EXTRA STAFF. As well as providing a mirrored function of Hull, the building will also be utilised for seamless business continuity with smart data capture and next generation voice over IP and enhanced functionality.

In addition to the day to day management of claims, the

centre will also be used for research and development, and be the home of the recently announced Nucleus and Oculus projects, keeping Vizion, it’s network and partners, in the best possible position to benefit from future changes and the rapid increase in a customer’s digital journey.

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We’re looking forward to moving with the network and just getting bigger and better as we go along.

CHRIS MCKIE VIZION

VIEW THE EVENT PHOTOS ON VIZON’S FACEBOOK

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VIZION FOCUS

THE VOICES OF IGNITE

Ignite Speakers were specifically chosen because of their passion, knowledge and ability to inspire our delegates. They are trusted voices and convention-breaking mavericks, icons and geniuses from across the automotive sector.

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Collectively, we felt that combined they are the most innovative and influential speakers and fit within the aims and directives of Ignite and projected the theme of the event.

Vizion would like to thank each and every one of them for their valuable contribution at Ignite.

QUENTIN WILLSON AWARD-WINNING MOTORING JOURNALIST, AUTHOR, TV PRESENTER AND CAMPAIGNER.

MARK MULLIN DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL STRATEGY, EMEA, FOR GUIDEWIRE SOFTWARE

ANDREW MARSH DIRECTOR, AUTO INDUSTRY CONSULTING LTD Watch Again?

MISSED THE all EVENT? WANT Cortex will be featuring the speaker videos TO SEE THE KEYNOTES AGAIN? from the event as well powerpoints, Head overas to there Cortex to see all the presentation videos from our speakers.* to recap and inspire you further CORTEX. BUILT FOR YOU *Log in required

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VIZION FOCUS

ANDY LARKUM CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER BEREA

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DEAN LANDER

TOM HUDD

HEAD OF OPERATIONS THATCHAM

OPERATIONS MANAGER - REPAIR TECHNOLOGY CENTER THATCHAM RESEARCH

JEFF MANRICKS

MARK HADAWAY

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AUDATEX

BODYSHOP - EDITOR

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VIZION FOCUS

Extremely enjoyable and as always well attended.

Plenty of time to network and view the exhibitors.

Refreshing to hear stats that seem to genuinely reflect what the customer wants, rather than trying to make them fit into what the insurers would like.

ANGELA HENRY M&M VEHICLE REPAIRS LTD

VIEW THE EVENT PHOTOS ON VIZION’S FACEBOOK

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VIZION FOCUS

IGNITIN CREATIVE

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NG THE E VIZION

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VIZION FOCUS

Pure, Vizion’s creative partner, embraced the challenge that Vizion set themselves everyday...be different, be challenging, be innovative.

A strong brand live Vizion’s have values and have taken the time to define and communicate what they believe in, stand for and aspire to be.

An event like Ignite is the chance to get back to the heart of the network whilst welcoming new faces and new possibilities.

“It was important to treat the event as you would a brand or a logo, developing it over 8 months to co-exist with the theme and the content, to create an instantly recognisable design encompassing the values of Vizion and what the events

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aims and aspirations, combining ‘Ignite’ with automotive the solution was obvious” Marcus explained.

The main icon of the design was the engine, completely built in a 3d environment and unique to the event Using the latest 3D software and rendering techniques created by Industrial Light & Magic, (better known for the effects in Star Wars, Transformers and Star Trek) Pure created the ‘Ignite engine’ an icon to the event.

‘An engine has many parts, all of which need to work together

that start with a simple ignition, much like the Vizion Network.

The benefit of creating original content in 3D is that you not bound by stock images, and the restraints of reality, you also have the opportunity to offer more variables and perspectives by using different camera angles and views.’

The brand was applied to a variety of media both digital and print, ensuring multi platform consistency and showcasing the content from the speakers via themed powerpoints individually designed for each speaker.

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VIZION FOCUS

VISUALISING REALITY

In addition to the creative design, Pure designed the Vizion Hub, the central exhibition area for Vizion to showcase online solutions and provide support for members queries. Designed to scale in 3D and then built by Nigel Hodgson from White Room Consortium.

3D design Improves visual communication. Being able to visually communicate with another project professional or client is key to facilitating an understanding of the designs direction and can offer a much clearer, authentic-looking version of the space and idea.

Ensuring accuracy is key to boosting engagement and

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making sure everyone involved has the right structural and material information at their disposal. Our visuals help establish a more collaborative potential between the different people that contribute to a project. This gives both the client and the build professional a voice during the design and actual building

process, which mitigates problems and reduces complications.

In the last year Pure has designed portable spray booths, bodyshops, receptions, exhibition stands and even a pop up hair salon for L’Oréal and a pop up bar for Hilton on London’s iconic South Bank.

Together from start to finish

Modern ART Innovative automotive solutions MIRKA’s patented net sanding concept has revolutionised the sanding processes in the automotive refinish industry.

MIRKA has become one of the world’s most trusted brands - our products and solutions are approved by the world’s leading global paint manufacturers and distributors. Our advanced surface finishing technology ensures a cleaner, safer working environment which saves time and guarantees a better quality of work.

Discover: www.mirka.co.uk

VIEW THE EVENT PHOTOS ON VIZION’S FACEBOOK

All in all very good, enjoyed the stands and socialising, as always picked up some useful info & a few golden nuggets!!

BRIAN LENNON CASTLE COACHWORKS

EMAC’s version 7 now approved for automatic updating of Vizion

VIZION FOCUS

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VIEW THE EVENT PHOTOS ON VIZION’S FACEBOOK

I would like to thank all involved for their time and efforts in putting on this conference for all of us within the network.

DAVID STAMMERS

SANDICLIFFE

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VIZION FOCUS

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CORTEX 3.1 UPDATE Cortex is a web environment that was built to aid the repairer with seamless integration, with tools and services aimed at improving the customer journey and to offer process enhancements utilising web technology.

January will see the latest update to Cortex with a host of new features, upgrades to existing tools and performance enhancements.

Cortex has grown from strength to strength and the latest update will provide a more robust connection with a strong emphasis of speed and cross platform compatibility, as well as making existing processes easier to use and find vital tools and information.

our clients, manufactuers and providers.

Suppliers have the ability to advertise and offer microsites to promote offers on products and services, offering a gateway to the repairers.

HOW DO I ACCESS CORTEX Access is restricted and by invitation only and monitored via strict security protocols and encryption.

Furthermore, comprehensive instructions and an update schedule will be released in January to ensure that our repairers benefit from the many services Cortex has to offer, now and in the future.

If you are a repairer, VDA or associated to a repairer and part of Vizion, then you will already have access, if you are unsure then email jules.laird@ vizionnetwork.co.uk, or your contact at Vizion.

Cortex is multi-faceted and also has reporting and live data streams on repairs, progress and repair dates, available to

If you are interested in contributing to Cortex or would like access, then apply using the above contact information.

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VIZION FOCUS

PHOTRACKER

USING YOUR CAMERA PHONE

Without a doubt using your phone to update the tracker is the best and most efficient way of uploading your updates, however, getting the photos right is another matter.

Cameras have been part of the smart phone revolution for some time, but technology and limitations on size meant they took terrible looking photos and performance wasn’t great. This has all changed and combined with Mobile Friendly Cortex, updating the customer is straight forward and can bring some great results.

To ensure consistency and quality we have provided 6 easy tips to follow to ensure your photos represent the quality of your business and your repair.

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1. CLEAN THE LENS Your iPhone spends a lot of time in your pocket, in your hand and in the workshop and as a result it will get dirty. Dirt, dust, grease and fingerprints on your lens will have a big effect on the quality of your photos. A clean lens will ensure you get sharp, clear images with your phone.

2. SET THE FOCUS The most important thing to ensure taking a photo for the customer is to make sure that your subject is in sharp focus. To set the focus on the iPhone camera for example you simply tap the screen where the area of importance is in the frame. A small yellow square will appear to confirm the focus point.

3. DON’T USE THE ZOOM I think this is the first step towards taking a bad smartphone picture.

If you want to zoom in on something, use your legs and move! Don’t forget that this is just a phone, and its opportunities are not those of a DSLR lens.

Unfortunately, this is a digital zoom and not an optical zoom. In essence what happens with a digital zoom is that the image is cropped as you zoom in. This results in a noticeable loss in image quality the more you zoom in.

4. KEEP YOUR CAMERA STEADY Keeping your camera still is particularly important when taking photos in low light. When you take a photo in these conditions, the iPhone camera will need to use a slow shutter speed to allow more light to hit the sensor. The problem with this is that any movement of the camera will result in a blurred image. Your ideal setup would be to invest in a tripod, improve lighting

5. CHOOSE UNIQUE ANGLES Try shooting from the dog’s view. This will make you look at the objects from a new perspective.

6. USE GRID-LINES TO BALANCE YOUR SHOT. One of the easiest and best ways to improve your mobile photos is to turn on the camera’s grid lines. That superimposes a series of lines on the screen of your smartphone’s camera that are based on the “rule of thirds” - if you place points of interest in these intersections or along the lines, your photo will be more balanced, level, and allow viewers to interact with it more naturally.

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VIZION FOCUS

WHY E-LEARNING? Quite simply, e-learning is electronic learning, and typically this means using a computer to deliver part, or all of a course whether it's at your work or at home WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

minimised. This also means

individual to tackle the subject

that your staff will be happier

at their own pace, with

There are several benefits to

because they don’t need to

interactive tasks being set in

e-learning, whether you choose

travel to specific training

place to ensure a thorough

to use it on its own, or to

centres, and if they have

understanding throughout each

enhance your existing in house

important work to catch up

module.

training.

on mandatory training can be done outside of office hours in

LEARNING 24/7, ANYWHERE:

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exchange for lieu time.

Many face to face courses

IT’S DISCREET:

only operate within normal

Not everybody feels comfortable

office hours. By allowing staff

learning in a large group,

to complete the course when

especially if they find something

and where they like you can

hard to understand that

make sure disruptions to your

co-workers have no problem

busy working schedule are

with. E-learning allows each

IT’S COST EFFECTIVE AND SAVES TIME: By reducing the time taken away from the office, removing travel costs and doing away with printed materials, online learning helps you to save money and increase workplace productivity. It also means your staff will be happier and focused.

VIZION FOCUS

FAST, FLEXIBLE TRAINING WITH NEW CROMAX® ONLINE LEARNING TOOL

Cromax® has launched a new online training solution – e-CTC – the first of its kind for the brand. E-CTC is designed to help maximise refinishers’ productivity and to work towards a reduction in bodyshop downtime. It can give bodyshops the flexibility to train refinishers cost-effectively in the bodyshop, and at their own pace.

Kevin Welling, Training Academy Manager for Axalta Coatings Systems in the UK and Ireland, says, “Every bodyshop manager knows that refinish training can mean downtime in the bodyshop and may involve

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costly travel. E-CTC was designed to deliver essential theoretical refinish expertise in a fun, dynamic and interactive online package that can be accessed at work whenever it is convenient. The inspiring

tutorials and effective learning techniques make it an engaging tool for refinishers. And it is very easy to get started. Once bodyshops have registered via the Cromax® webshop – www.cromastore.co.uk – they

are given access to the online courses. The flexibility of e-CTC means bodyshop managers can plan training according to workload, which helps to maintain the resources needed for optimal throughput and productivity.”

Eight user-friendly modules are designed to provide refinishers with expert training to develop specific skill-sets.

The modules – Safety at Work, Surface Preparation, Plastic Part Preparation and Repair, High Performance Substrates, Colour and Colour Tools, Repair Processes and Techniques, as well as Rectification of Application Defects and a module on Cromax® Products for Daily Use – are available in Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish and Swedish. Each module takes about an hour to complete and they can be worked through in any order.

Apart from the product section, every module concludes with a short test. If participants achieve an 80 per cent pass rate or more, they qualify as an e-Certified Cromax® Painter and are then invited to a practical Skills Assessment Day at the Cromax® Training Academy in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire. Passing this assessment qualifies them as a Fully Certified Cromax® Painter.

Welling concludes, “Improving and maintaining refinishers’ skills is essential to staying competitive. With our innovative online e-CTC learning tool, refinish training can become as highly productive as possible.”

TO CLAIM YOU OFFER VISIT CORTEX* FOR MORE INFORMATION CORTEX. BUILT FOR YOU *login required

VIZION FOCUS

ICONIC RACING HELMETS Helmets are vital in Formula OneTM. The regulations require them to be designed to withstand high stresses and temperatures of up to 900°C. But ensuring that they also look great is the job of the driver and their helmet designer.

Jens Munser works with the MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula OneTM driver Nico Rosberg to design his helmet and uses the Spies Hecker HiTEC Performance System.

Helmets offer protection, but also share the limelight with the Formula OneTM race drivers.

They are one of the most visible parts of Formula One drivers when they are in the cockpit of their race cars, and the only area the drivers can personalise with their own designs. Helmet designer Jens Munser has been in this business for 27 years, and today, he and his team are among the most well-respected

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Formula OneTM helmet designers.

EVERY GRAM COUNTS “The paint process is very different from that of cars,” Munser says when describing the challenging job of painting helmets. “We first produce graphic elements on the computer and transfer these to templates. Then, before the actual paint, we also apply a fireproof primer.”

Munser uses the Spies Hecker Permahyd Hi-TEC Base Coat 480, with special effects achieved thanks to gold leaf, glitter flakes

or transfer printing. Munser then uses the fast-drying Permasolid Speed Clear Coat 8800 or the efficient Permasolid Clear Coat 8035. The multiple paint layers, which must not exceed 50 grams in total, are used to create the unique helmet design in a process that takes anywhere between eight and 20 hours of work.

Whether it is in Monte Carlo, Baku or Silverstone, Rosberg races around the tracks during the Formula OneTM season at over 300km/h wearing his custom-designed helmet, sporting Munser’s design and Spies Hecker paint.

Short downtime

– with Permasolid® HS Speed Clear Coat 8800.

Quicker can also be better. The innovative Permasolid HS Speed Clear Coat 8800 requires just five minutes drying time at 60 °C. With lightning speed, your booth is then ready for the next vehicle. This increases efficiency levels in your business. The results simply sparkle: Our painters enthuse about the mirror-like quality of the surface.

Spies Hecker – simply closer.

An Axalta Coating Systems Brand

Spies Hecker • Unit 1 Quadrant Park • Mundells • Welwyn Garden City • AL7 1FS • www.spieshecker.co.uk

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U-POL RAISES THE BAR WITH ITS RAPID CLEARCOAT DEVELOPED TO DRAMATICALLY INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY U-Pol has utilised its 70-year heritage of pioneering products for the accident repair industry and developed a revolutionary clearcoat that delivers the perfect ‘gun’ finish without the final polishing process.

Developed at the company’s Wellingborough-based R&D facilities, Rapid uses advanced high resin technology to enable single and multiple panels to be coated, cured and customer ready within a fraction of the time of existing products.

Extensive tests carried out over the last 12 months reveal that the Rapid system increases productivity by up to 40 per cent, dramatically reduces costs and lower key-to-key cycle times.

Crucially, Rapid provides bodyshops with the complete flexibility of air-drying, oven baking or using infrared drying systems for curing.

Typically, one a half coats of Rapid clearcoat can be oven baked in just 10 minutes compared with 30 minutes needed for conventional products – incredibly, Rapid

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reduces the complete process, from first coat to customerready finish by up to 80 minutes..

Rapid’s significant reduction in cycle time increases throughput by up to 40 per cent and ensures a substantial reduction in overall costs per repair. A high solids formula ensures that up to 30 per cent less is used compared with similar products.

Rapid allows choice of curing methods allowing greater efficiencies; it can be ready for polishing if required in just 10 minutes if oven baked, 10 minutes if infrared drying is used and just over an hour if left to air dry in an ambient temperature of 20c. A further unique property of Rapid is the use of just one hardener whereas other similar products use a range from slow to fast depending on requirements

which means less stock holding for the body shop.

Guy Williams, U-Pol Chief Executive Officer, commented: “We are extremely fortunate to have more than 70 years experience in developing and pioneering new products for the accident repair industry and we have tapped into that unrivalled heritage to develop Rapid.

“Rapid has been developed with the primary objectives needed for today’s car repairer; that’s speed to reduce cycle times, flexibility in curing and to maintain high profitability.

It really is the clearcoat for the 21st century.”

ultra-fast brilliant finish U-POL™ Rapid Clearcoat – an innovative new formula technically developed and tested to deliver ultimate drying speed (air dried / oven baked or IR cured) producing a superior gun finish.

Driving Surface perfection www.rapid.u-pol.com

VIZION FOCUS

£7.75M WORTH OF UNINSURED VEHICLES SAVED FROM DISPOSAL HPI CRUSH WATCH | Advance warning of disposals Enforcement Agencies check with HPI Crushwatch before releasing a car or van to be crushed; HPI then alerts you if one of your assets is on their list. https://trade.hpi.co.uk/finance-companies/hpi-crush-watch/

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New figures released by automotive experts HPI reveal that its CrushWatch scheme has helped finance and leasing companies recover over £7.75m of uninsured vehicles in September 2016.

HPI’s CrushWatch initiative is a UK-wide scheme that helps lenders both reduce their losses and contribute to road safety by reclaiming their assets from the police. Uninsured vehicles which would have been sold at auction or in the worst case scenario, scrapped, are reunited with their legitimate owners under the innovative scheme.

A total of £65million of vehicles which had been seized for being driven without valid insurance were flagged up to the finance and leasing companies who

legally owned them during 2015. Prior to the introduction of the HPI CrushWatch scheme, these vehicles may have been disposed of without their knowledge.

Working under the umbrella of the Finance & Leasing Association’s (FLA) Vehicle Recovery Scheme, HPI CrushWatch from vehicle history check expert, HPI, assists Law Enforcement Agencies with identifying if vehicles confiscated from uninsured drivers, rightfully belong to a

finance house.

The figures highlight that owners of high value cars are not immune from driving without valid insurance resulting in the reclamation of vehicles across the UK which otherwise may have found themselves at auction or on the scrap heap.

Thanks to HPI Crushwatch finance and leasing companies were able to identify and reclaim over £807k worth of high value cars from police forces around the UK. [See table below].

Vehicle Make

Model

Police Force

Value

LAMBORGHINI

AVENTADOR LP 700-4 ROADST

Metropolitan

£242,000

MERCEDES-BENZ

G63 AMG AUTO

Metropolitan

£108,100

LAND ROVER

RANGE ROVER AUTOBIO L V8

Metropolitan

£83,000

LAND ROVER

RANGE ROVER VOGUE TDV6 AU

Metropolitan

£61,200

LAND ROVER

RANGE ROVER VOGUE SDV8 AU

Metropolitan

£59,000

BMW

750LI SE AUTO

Metropolitan

£58,600

JAGUAR

F-TYPE S V6 AWD AUTO

Gloucestershire

£51,800

LAND ROVER

RANGE ROVER VOGUE TDV6 AU

Metropolitan

£50,300

LAND ROVER

RANGE ROVER SPORT HSE SDV

Beds, Cambs, Herts

£47,100

MERCEDES-BENZ

GLE 350 D AMG LINE PREM 4

Metropolitan

£46,800

The latest monthly HPI Crushwatch figures reveal that the top five manufacturer makes most commonly avoiding the possibility of auction or the scrap yard following reclamation from the Police consisted of Vauxhall, Ford, BMW, Volkswagen and

Mercedes-Benz models to the tune of over £4.6m.

Barry Shorto, Head of Industry Relations at HPI, said: “Yet again we are witnessing that in just one month, the total value of the cars recovered highlights the important role HPI CrushWatch

is playing in clamping down on the recurring problem of uninsured drivers. Working collaboratively with police forces throughout the UK we are aiming to help the leasing and finance companies to minimise losses and to solve this problem once and for all.”

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VIZION FOCUS

SUBARU EYESIGHT HIGHLY COMMENDED FOR SAFETY INNOVATION Subaru’s EyeSight collision avoidance technology has been singled out for praise in the inaugural Car Tech Awards established by expert automotive and technology reviewers from Carbuyer and Alphr. The awards judges gave the safety system on the Subaru Outback a 'Highly Commended' accolade in the 'Best Safety Innovation - over £25,000' category.

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EyeSight is a camera-based

The Car Tech Awards have been

maximum five-star Euro NCAP

driver assistance system that

established to celebrate the

crash test safety rating. It

acts as a ‘second pair of eyes’

best in-car technology currently

features six technologies to

for drivers, employing stereo

available to motorists. The

maximise safety: Pre-Collision

camera technology to monitor

awards follow months of testing

Braking, Pre-Collision Throttle

the road and traffic ahead for

every major new car on the market today, in order to find

Management, Adaptive Cruise

potential hazards. The judging panel rated the Outback's

the most effective technologies

EyeSight system ahead of safety

available to buyers.

technologies from a number of more expensive models from other brands.

Director of Subaru UK, said: “We

EyeSight's two colour cameras

are delighted EyeSight has been

said: “The brilliance of EyeSight

and Alphr. Our customers

and it goes about its business with the minimum of fuss.

Features like Lead Vehicle Start Alert and Pre-Collision

Assist, and Lead Vehicle Start Alert.

Highly Commended by Carbuyer

effective and well packaged,

Warning, Pre-Collision Steering

Paul Tunnicliffe, Managing

Stuart Milne, Carbuyer editor is that its systems are very

Control, Lane Departure & Sway

rate EyeSight very highly and love that the camera-based technology offers peace of mind, in a completely unobtrusive way.”

are located either side of the rear view mirror, and detect the presence of vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and other potential hazards up to 110 metres in front.

In 2015, Subaru released data from a survey of traffic accidents

Throttle Management are

SUBARU EYESIGHT

two exceptional features

Fitted as standard to every

Japan from 2010 to 2014. The

that are of real benefit. The

Subaru Outback sold in

data revealed a 61% reduction

Outback’s EyeSight system really

the UK with a Lineartronic

in crashes for vehicles equipped

impressed us, and it beat some

(CVT) transmission, EyeSight

with EyeSight, compared to

very big names in its class.”

contributed to the Outback’s

those without.

involving Subaru vehicles in

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VIZION FOCUS

ELECTRIC VEHICLE UPTAKE ACCELERATES

GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES £10M CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT

October’s announcement of £10 million government investment in electric vehicle charging comes as the year-to-date plug-in car registrations total passes the sector’s full-year 2015 total. So far this year, motorists have bought 28,697 electric cars, placing 2016 ahead of last year’s January-December total of 28,188 cars with three months still to go.

Part of a £35m investment in the ultra low emission vehicle sector, the £7.5 million funding for workplace chargepoints, coupled with the £2.5 million for residential on-street infrastructure is set to accelerate electric car uptake by enhancing motorists’ confidence and expanding charging options.

Throughout this year, record numbers of owners bought-in to

54

the low running costs and Plug-In Car Grant discounts to push the January-September total 36.7% ahead of last year. The new registration plate boosted last month’s performance to be the greatest September on record with 6,113 electric cars sold, a 56.2% yearon-year increase.

government investment in

Poppy Welch, Head of Go Ultra Low, said: “The £10 million

a perceived lack of accessible

workplace and residential charge-points is sure to boost motorists’ confidence in electric cars and vans while accelerating uptake rates. While more than 90% of electric car charging takes place at home, this announcement gives drivers extra options and addresses charge-points.

“Looking at year-on-year growth, September was the 53rd consecutive month of registrations rises in the electric car market. There are more plug-in cars on our streets than ever before. As more drivers realise the cost-saving benefits of these vehicles and the variety of models continues to expand, we expect uptake to continue its strong upward trend.”

Transport Minister, John Hayes said: “The number of ultra low emission vehicles on our roads are at record levels and we are committing £35 million to help install new charge-points and offer new grants as we aim for

nearly all cars and vans on our roads to be zero emission by 2050.”

A large rise in uptake of pure electric cars was also documented in these quarterly results, with the 2,128 new battery-only vehicles sold in September (+37.4%) contributing to the 8,107 vehicles sold this year. Meanwhile, plug-in hybrids rose 68.5% in September with 3,985 vehicles new on the road, pushing the annual total to 20,590 registrations (+46.6%).

Of the 30-plus plug-in electric vehicles on the market, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is

the year’s most popular plug-in hybrid with 7,770 registrations.

The Sunderland-made Nissan LEAF is 2016’s best-performing pure-electric car with 3,728 registered over the JanuarySeptember period.

Go Ultra Low exists to help motorists understand the benefits, cost savings and capabilities of the raft of electric vehicles on the market. The collaborative campaign is the first of its kind, bringing together a consortium of vehicle manufacturers, Government and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

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VIZION FOCUS

AGILE, VERSATILE, ELECTRIFYING:

THE MINI COOPER S E COUNTRYMAN ALL4

Characteristic MINI driving fun is now available in fascinating, sustainable form. The MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 is the first model of the British premium brand in which a plug-in hybrid drive provides the option of mobility that is purely electric and therefore emissions-free, in addition to offering the thrill of athletic agility and supreme versatility.

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VIZION FOCUS The job of providing efficient forward propulsion is shared between a 3-cylinder petrol engine and a synchronous electric motor. Together they produce a system output of 165 kW/224 hp. Equally impressive is the average fuel consumption of 2.1 litres per 100 kilometres and the CO2 emissions figure of 49 grams per kilometre (EU test cycle figures for plug-in hybrid vehicles). The MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 is thus the perfect vehicle for urban target groups who wish to enjoy the benefits of purely electric mobility when commuting between home and work every day, for example, while at the same time benefiting from unlimited long-distance suitability at the weekend.

The MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 combines the variable space concept of the new model generation’s

58

largest member with the sustainability of BMW Group eDrive technology and an electrified all-wheel drive system. The front wheels are powered by the combustion engine, the rear wheels by the electric motor. The MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 is able to run on electricity alone not just in urban traffic but far beyond, too – at a top speed of 125 km/h and with a range of up to 40 kilometres.

Drawing on the power of both drive forms, it offers driving fun away from surfaced roads, too. “The plug-in hybrid concept perfectly matches the new MINI Countryman because it offers intelligent all-wheel drive as well as being able to run on electricity alone both in urban areas and over longer distances, too. This is unique in the segment,” says Uwe Seitz, MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 project manager.

MINI IS A PIONEER IN THE FIELD OF ELECTRIC MOBILITY. The BMW Group’s technological expertise and range of models have given it a leading role in the area of electric mobility.

MINI was an early pioneer here: the MINI E presented in 2008 was the BMW Group’s first ever purely electrically powered automobile and was driven by private users in everyday traffic as part of a large-scale field experiment. More than 600 of this vehicle based on the MINI Cooper were used for practical testing purposes worldwide.

The project yielded vital insights into the use of electrically powered automobiles, and these were incorporated in the development of the BMW i3.

MINI TWINPOWER TURBO AND EDRIVE TECHNOLOGY COMBINED.

The plug-in hybrid drive of the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 combines the best of two worlds.

The familiar space under the bonnet is occupied by a 3-cylinder petrol engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology from the latest generation of the BMW Group engines.

From a capacity of 1.5 litres this mobilises a peak output of 100 kW/136 hp. The maximum torque of the engine is 220 Newton metres, which goes on stream at 1 250 rpm. In the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4, the combustion engine is combined with a modified 6-speed Steptronic transmission.

This transfers its power to the front wheels based on the characteristic MINI principle.

The second power unit of the MINI S E Countryman ALL4 is an electric motor that is housed under the luggage compartment floor. Designed according to the principle of a hybrid synchronous motor, the electric drive offers an output of 65 kW/88 hp – which is particularly high considering its size and weight – and generates a maximum torque of 165 Newton metres that is characteristically available directly from standing.

In addition, it provides constant power delivery even in high engine speed ranges as well as a very high level of efficiency. The electric motor directs its power to the rear axle via a two-stage single-speed transmission.

VIZION FOCUS

MERCEDES-BENZ CONCEPT X-CLASS

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THE FIRST TRUE PREMIUM PICKUP

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VIZION FOCUS

With the Concept X-CLASS, Mercedes-Benz Vans gives a concrete outlook on its new pickup, the X-Class, in Stockholm. The first premium pickup will combine the best of two worlds. This is demonstrated impressively by Mercedes-Benz with two design variants of the concept car.

The Concept X-CLASS powerful adventurer illustrates that the future X-Class will possess all the strengths of a classic pickup – tough, functional, strong, and with off-road capability.

The Concept X-CLASS stylish explorer goes a step further and shows what will distinguish the pickup bearing the Mercedes star. The X-Class will be a true Mercedes from the hallmark brand design and comfort to the driving dynamics and safety.

This will make Mercedes-Benz the first premium manufacturer to account for the changing customer requirements in the global segment of mid-size pickups, and it will make the tough one-ton pickup with seating for up to five persons the first to be attractive as an urban lifestyle and family vehicle.

With the pickup, MercedesBenz Vans will expand its product range with a fourth model series. At the same time, the brand bearing the threepointed star will become the first premium manufacturer to occupy the promising segment of mid-size pickups. Daimler AG will make investments in the high nine figures (euro) in the new model series by the time of the market launch. It will be launched in late 2017

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under the name Mercedes-Benz X-Class. The key markets will be Argentina, Brazil, South Africa, Australia with New Zealand, and Europe.

Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars: "With the Mercedes-Benz pickup, we will close one of the last gaps in our portfolio.

Our target: we want to offer customers vehicles matching their specific needs. The X-Class will set new standards in a growing segment."

"We will open up and change the segment of mid-size pickups – with the world's first true premium pickup for the modern urban lifestyle", says Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans. "Our future X-Class will be a pickup that knows no compromise.

Ladder-type frame, hightorque six-cylinder engine, and permanent all-wheel drive are compulsory for us. As an added value we bring safety, comfort, agility, and expressive design – in other words, everything that distinguishes vehicles bearing the Mercedes star. We will thus appeal to new customers who have not considered owning a pickup before."

Changing segment: Mercedes-Benz first premium manufacturer of a pickup Worldwide the market for midsize pickups is undergoing a radical change. Gone are the days when they were bought

as mere "workhorses". Instead, they are becoming increasingly popular as versatile vehicles for a simultaneous private and commercial use and as vehicles for a strictly private use. The percentage of privately used pickups has been growing steadily for years. Accordingly, the double cab has emerged as the dominating body style, because it offers room for up to five persons. More and more private and commercial customers ask for vehicles with the characteristics and comfort features of a passenger car.

A similar development took place in the segment of offroad vehicles some 20 years ago. Back then, MercedesBenz was the first premium manufacturer to launch a sport utility vehicle (SUV), the M-Class, and completely redefined the off-road segment – with lasting

success.

"The Concept X-CLASS design variants interpret the hallmark brand design idiom of our SUVs in a most expressive form, and embody the dichotomy of our design philosophy: they are hot and cool", says Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Daimler AG. "With its progressive design the powerful adventurer expresses cool modernity and thirst for adventure, while the stylish explorer on the other hand uses pure emotion to provide a tangible experience of modern beauty."

Concept X-CLASS stylish explorer: progressive design with SUV looks The Concept X-CLASS stylish

explorer, painted in a cool elegant white metallic, impressively demonstrates how the Mercedes-Benz pickup will make a decidedly stylish statement in its segment and in the urban environment.

The contrast of emotionally appealing and yet purist surface treatment ("hot") and technically precise, innovative and clever details ("cool") reinterprets the design philosophy of MercedesBenz. The athletic design lends the concept car a markedly expressive and dynamic appearance. The distinctive front represents an evolution of the hallmark SUV face of the brand – with a more massive powerdome on the bonnet and headlamps extending far into the wings. The classic SUV front apron and the strongly flared wheel arches put even more emphasis on the sense of

width, and give the vehicle an even more solid stance on the road. At the same time, the front cites the single-louvre grille with centrally positioned Mercedes star, the face of the elegant Mercedes-Benz coupĂŠs.

The flared front and rear wings make room for a wide track and large tyre/wheel combinations for tough off-road use. 22inch light-alloy wheels with a contrasting anthracite chrome finish give the Concept X-CLASS stylish explorer a towering and superior stance. The running boards are integrated into the bodywork and emphasise the athletically sculpted body.

Depending on the angle of the incoming light, the paintwork developed specifically for this concept car lends the urban pickup a look that gives the athletic profile even more emotional appeal.

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VIZION FOCUS

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A WINNER GETS EVEN BETTER AUDI UPDATES THE Q5 Sporty, attractive and versatile – the Audi Q5 performance SUV is the most successful mid-class SUV in Europe.

Now it is even better – adding many new solutions in design, infotainment, assistance systems and engines.

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VIZION FOCUS

The Q5 hybrid quattro combines the power of a sixcylinder engine with the fuel economy of a four-cylinder unit, while the new SQ5 TDI showcases the dynamic potential of the model series with 230 kW (313 hp) – it is the first S model from Audi to feature a diesel engine.

strongly accentuate the looks of the Q5. The wrap-around tailgate – a typical design element of the Audi Q models – and the engine hood are made of aluminum. In the passenger cell, advanced form-hardened steels reduce weight; they are extremely strong and at the same time lightweight.

The sporty design of the Q5 with its flat roof arch is now appearing in a meticulously revised and sharpened form.

The single-frame grille has chamfered top corners; its vertical chrome struts and Audi rings have a sculptural look. The bumpers, air inlets and front fog lights are also new.

More power, less fuel consumption: engines

The optional xenon plus headlights have a continuous strip of LED daytime running lights around the edge, similar to the tail lights at the rear. The sporty S line exterior package and distinctive offroad styling package are options that

66

In revising the Audi Q5, fuel economy was improved by up to 15 percent, despite power increases for most engines. The three TDI engines and the two TFSI engines combine direct fuel injection with turbocharging, and a start-stop system is standard throughout the engine lineup.

The 2.0 TDI is available in two versions. The version developing 105 kW (143 hp) has a combined fuel consumption of just 5.3 liters of diesel per 100 km

(44.38 US mpg). The intensively advanced 3.0 TDI produces 180 kW (245 hp) of power and 580 Nm (427.79 lb-ft) of torque. It accelerates the Q5 from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 6.5 seconds.

Another highlight of the engine lineup is the all new two-liter TFSI. This gasoline engine introduces innovative solutions – in the control of valves and their stroke, in its innovative thermal management, turbocharger, integration of the exhaust manifold in the cylinder head and the common rail system that integrates additional fuel injection into the induction manifold.

The 2.0 TFSI produces 165 kW (225 hp), yet it has a combined fuel consumption of just 7.9 liters per 100 km (29.77 US mpg) with the tiptronic transmission.

Offering even more performance is the new 3.0 TFSI – this supercharged V6 increases

power output to 200 kW (272 hp) with 400 Nm (295.02 lb-ft) of torque. It completes the sprint to highway speed (62.14 mph) in 5.9 seconds.

For each engine, Audi supplies a transmission that matches its output. A six-speed manual is standard for the four-cylinder engines. The sporty seven-speed S tronic is standard for the 3.0 TDI and is available as an option for the 2.0 TDI developing 130 kW (177 hp). The convenient eight-speed tiptronic is an option for the 2.0 TFSI and is standard for the 3.0 TFSI. In the four-cylinder versions, the transmissions are integrated into the engine’s thermal management system, which significantly shortens the warm-up phase. The quattro permanent four-wheel drive with torque vectoring is standard, except for the 2.0 TDI developing 105 kW (143 hp) which is factory-equipped with

front-wheel drive.

Advanced efficiency: electromechanical power steering The new electromechanical power steering system represents another advance in efficiency – in straight-line driving, the Q5 no longer needs any energy for steering. Audi has also tuned the springs, shock absorbers and stabilizers for an even more balanced chassis. Most engine versions are delivered with 18-inch aluminum wheels; wheels up to 20 inches in diameter and the S line sport suspension are available as options.

Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC) detects the composition of the road and adjusts its interventions accordingly; hill descent assist is standard.

The Audi drive select dynamic handling system introduces

more versatility to the performance profile of the Q5.

It lets the driver control the accelerator pedal characteristic, automatic transmission shift points, amount of steering assist and operation of the automatic air conditioning over four different modes, including an efficiency mode. If an Audi navigation system is installed, the user-programmable ‘individual’ mode is added.

Optional high-end components can be integrated into the Audi drive select control system as well. They include a radar-based adaptive cruise control system, chassis with damping control and dynamic steering. The latter adjusts the steering gear ratio according to vehicle speed and improves stability in sharp curves.

VIZION FOCUS

PLEASE TAKE ME TO SCHOOL, MUM!

PRACTICAL FORD HOT HATCHES ARE PUTTING NEW BUYERS IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT

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Hot hatches – sporty small cars with powerful engines – were once the preserve of “petrol head” car fans, but are fast becoming a mainstream choice for car-buyers who are a far cry from the stereotypical “boy racer”, Ford data shows.

Ford hot hatch sales across Europe are booming with more than 22,200 Focus RS, Focus ST, and Fiesta ST models sold during the first threequarters of 2016. Orders for the acclaimed Focus RS have reached more than 9,100 since launch.* Customers choosing practical performance models are increasingly ranking equipment levels and compact size as key purchase decisions, alongside powerful engines and driving experiences that better combine ride comfort with driving dynamics tuned by award-winning Ford Performance specialists.

Ford’s Focus RS, Focus ST petrol and diesel, and Fiesta ST– now available in five-door bodystyle for the first time – also offer a number of technologies that enhance daily driving. These include Ford’s SYNC communications and entertainment systems, Quickclear windscreen for effortless defrosting in winter weather, and heated seats – helping keep the latest generation of hot hatches comfortable and practical all year round.

New findings from Ford sales data shows the average age of hot hatch customers has increased from around 38 years old in 2010 to 42 years old in 2016. Ford data also reveals that 8 per cent more women bought hot hatches in 2015, compared with 2010.

Ford futurist and global consumer trends manager, Sheryl Connelly, has identified a trend for durable, multi-function products that meet customer desire for a “Swiss Army Life”.

“The Swiss Army Life is all about self-reliance. In response to the trend, consumers are increasingly drawn to products that deliver in terms of versatility, adaptability and utility,” Connelly said.

“Perhaps this is even truer for Millennials who seem to be pioneering new paths and are careful to invest in products that can support them through many different lifestyles and life stages.” paths and

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VIZION FOCUS

Sarah Stringfellow, from Brentwood, U.K., is typical of new buyers who are attracted by hot hatch versatility and who confound the usual stereotype.

The 31-year-old drives a top specification Focus ST3 with EcoBoost petrol engine.

“The Focus ST appealed as it was fast, looked great and wasn’t too big, with plenty of room for shopping or luggage for weekends away. What I hadn’t expected was the real sense of luxury inside,” Stringfellow said.

“Of course, it’s the power and the way it drives that I really love. In fact, I’m now beginning to hanker after a Focus RS!” More practical hot hatches also continue to hold their appeal with a dedicated customer base as those buyers grow older and experience lifestyle changes.

Having a family no longer rules out owning a hot hatch as an everyday car, and performance car fans who could not afford their dream car in their younger years are now able to consider a

70

modern hot hatch in later life.

"There remains a hardcore of hot hatch fans who believe nothing with more than three doors is worthy of the hot hatch description, but as the market, and buyers, have matured I think there's less of a stigma attached to the fivedoor bodystyle,” said Dan Trent, editor of popular car enthusiast website Pistonheads. “I'm a perfect example – now I've got kids I couldn't run a three-door car and if the option of a fivedoor version is the difference between having a hot hatch or not, then I'm all for it!"

The Ford Focus RS five-door hatchback features a 350PS 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, Ford Performance All Wheel Drive and Selectable Drive Modes– including an industryfirst Drift Mode that allows controlled oversteer drifts.

The Ford Focus ST is offered with 250PS EcoBoost petrol or 185PS TDCi diesel engines in five-door hatchback or wagon

bodystyles. The Ford Fiesta ST three-door and five-door hatchbacks deliver 182PS from a 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engine.

Also offered is the new 200PS Fiesta ST200 – available in threedoor bodystyle only.

Earlier this year Ford also introduced a new ST-Line range of models that offer Ford Performance-inspired styling and powerful, fuel-efficient engines. ST-Line models include Fiesta, Focus, Mondeo and the recently announced new Ford Kuga.

Ford has a strong history of popular hot hatches in Europe dating back 35 years to the Fiesta XR2. This year Ford will sell more than 200,000 performance cars globally, including Mustang, Focus RS, and Focus ST and Fiesta ST – nearly double the volume from just three years ago.

MEETING GROWING CONSUMER DEMAND FOR MORE LUXURIOUS SUVS The new Ford Kuga Vignale and Ford Edge Vignale are the first sport utility vehicles (SUVs) introduced as part of the Ford Vignale upscale product and ownership experience – and meet growing consumer demand for more luxurious models in the best-selling vehicle segment in Europe.

Both the Ford Kuga Vignale mid-size SUV and Ford Edge large SUV deliver exclusive specification and high-quality materials including tuxedostitched Windsor leather interiors, unique Vignale colours, and detailing including the signature Ford Vignale hexagonal grille design.

Cutting-edge technologies include Ford’s Adaptive Front Lighting System that adjusts the headlight beam angle and intensity to match the driving environment, and Ford’s SYNC 3 communication and entertainment system that delivers faster performance and an 8-inch touch screen that enables pinch and swipe

gestures.

Powerful, fuel-efficient and refined powertrains include Ford’s 210 PS bi-turbo TDCi diesel for the Ford Edge Vignale, and 182 PS 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine for the Ford Kuga Vignale. Ford Intelligent All Wheel Drive (AWD) is delivered as standard for the Ford Edge Vignale and is offered for the Ford Kuga Vignale, delivering a seamless transition of torque between all four wheels to provide a more secure footing on the road.

Refinement is further enhanced for the Ford Edge Vignale with Ford Active Noise Control, which directs opposing sound waves through the audio system to cancel out engine noise and improve cabin ambience.

“Our Ford Vignale range speaks directly to the growing

trend for upmarket SUVs and represents the very best of Ford with luxurious design, materials and craftsmanship,” said Roelant de Waard, vice president, Marketing, Sales & Service, Ford of Europe. “We see great potential to extend the top end of our Ford product range and offer a special experience that meets the growing expectations of our customers.”

The percentage of SUVs sold in Europe compared with total car sales has grown from 6 per cent in 2005 to 23 per cent in 2015. * This is expected to increase to 27 per cent by 2020, according to industry sales analyst IHS. Almost 4-in-5 of the record 102,000 Kugas sold in 2015 were high-specification Titanium models, indicating high demand for luxury variants in the SUV segment.

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DB11 WINS T3 DESIGN OF THE YEAR AWARD THE NEW ASTON MARTIN DB11 HAS WON THE T3 DESIGN OF THE YEAR AWARD, PRESENTED ANNUALLY TO THE WORLD’S BEST TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS.

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Now entering its 10th year, the

After receiving the award,

DB11 so it is a real pleasure to

T3 Awards is one of UK’s biggest

presented at the Royal

accept this award.”

and most prestigious technology

Horticultural Halls in London

awards and celebrates the most

on 28 September, Aston Martin

transformational products and

Creative Director of Exterior

people each year. Voted for by

Design, Miles Nurnberger said:

T3 readers, the Design of the

“Exceptional design and cutting

media as the “rebirth of an icon”

Year Award is presented to the

edge technology lie at the

and the “star of the show”, the

‘most pleasing looking device,

heart of Aston Martin. We are

Aston Martin DB11 is the latest

or one that re-imagines what a

extremely proud of the work

in an illustrious bloodline of

product of its type can look like’.

that went into the design of

authentic, dynamic sports cars

First revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2016, where it was heralded by the

from the British luxury marque

uninterrupted from A-pillar

gifted DB model in Aston

and the first product launched

to C-pillar, a front-hinging

Martin’s history.

under the company’s ambitious

clamshell bonnet, distinctive LED

‘Second Century’ plan’.

headlights, and the beautiful

The epitome of Aston Martin's progressive design language,

Aston Martin AeroBladeTM; a virtual spoiler fed by discreet air

Competition for the Design of the Year Award came from an array of products including

intakes located at the base of

the B&W Zeppeling Wireless

of exceptional design and

each C-pillar. In addition to its

speaker, Hive Active Heating, the

cutting edge technology.

groundbreaking design, DB11

Olympus Pen-F camera, the new

The car’s distinctive design

is the most powerful, most

Dyson Supersonic hairdryer and

features roof strakes that flow

efficient and most dynamically

the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge.

DB11 is the ultimate partnership

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VIZION FOCUS

JAGUAR LAND ROVER OPENS ICE DRIVING ACADEMY 74

JAGUAR LAND ROVER HAS OPENED ITS FIRST ICE DRIVING ACADEMY, OFFERING A ONCE-INA-LIFETIME DRIVING EXPERIENCE AND TRAVEL ADVENTURE ON THE EDGE OF THE ARCTIC CIRCLE Based at the company’s coldweather testing facility in Lapland, Sweden, guests at the Ice Academy will have the opportunity to push themselves to the limit in Jaguar and Land Rover high-performance vehicles. With expert tuition, customers can experience the Jaguar F-TYPE, F-PACE and Range Rover Sport in sub-zero temperatures on carved ice

tracks on a vast frozen lake.

A unique itinerary with classic vehicles is also available. Guests can experience how to handle the Jaguar MKII, MKVII and XK150, and Land Rover Series I, Series II and Series III without modern brakes, power steering or traction control.

The three- and four-night programmes, which start from €2,490, include accommodation meals, transfers and professional drivers to help guests develop their skills and

have a truly unforgettable experience. Bookings are now being taken for trips from January 2017.

Renowned for mountainous landscapes and forests, Lapland is also the perfect base for guests to experience the Arctic Circle with snowmobiling and husky safari trips available within easy reach of the Academy.

For more information visit: jaguar.com/icedrivesweden or landrover.com/icedrivesweden

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INSIDE SVO’S CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

Positioned as the ‘inner sanctum’ of the Jaguar Land Rover brand, the SVO Technical Centre is a purpose-built, 20,000-square metre centre of excellence. Representing a multi-million-pound investment, the facility is divided into four key zones: VIP Commissioning Suite, Manufacturing Facility, Paint Facility and an F1-style Technical Suite.

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VIZION FOCUS

MANUFACTURING FACILITY This zone is home to the final stage of the approval process where the cars are handfinished and undergo some of the world’s toughest quality checks. At its heart is a number of inspection bays where the cars come under the closest scrutiny to ensure every single part is finished to a flawless condition. Each bay is fitted with the very latest lighting technology that is designed to reflect against the paint surface to highlight even the smallest imperfection. This process is the final step to ensuring that every product carrying the Special Vehicle Operations badge is perfect in every respect, which is crucial to building a globally recognised brand of excellence.

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COMMISSIONING & PRESENTATION SUITES Accessed by invitation only, this luxuriously appointed and innovative area has been designed to let customers explore the full range of vehicle personalisation and paint options.

Whether it’s a decision to be made over the colour of the exterior paint (there are 288 physical colour samples on display), or the seat leather, headlining, stitching, veneers, seatbelts, brake calipers or wheel finishes, the number of personalisation options is almost limitless.

Add to this the latest scanning and visualization technology, where customers can build up the components of their chosen car to find the perfect combination.

WORLD-CLASS PAINT

TECHNICAL SUITE

Accommodating approximately 12,000-square metres – more than half the entire complex – the SVO Paint Facility is kitted out with the very latest in body paint technology, including four stateof-the-art spraying robots tasked with fulfilling all SVO Premium Palette and bespoke paint orders. As one of the world’s most advanced and environmentally efficient paint shops, it offers industry-leading standards of quality, precision and choice. Myriad paint finishes including High Gloss Metallic, ChromaFlair and Satin, join DuoTone in providing customers with even greater levels of individuality. SVO also provides a bespoke colour-matching service so customers can colour match from more than 15,000 base body colours.

Inspired by the engineering facilities of Formula One racing teams, this innovative workspace has been created to enable the technicians to hand-finish bespoke commissions. From small, intricate projects that may involve fitting heraldic crests, to large-scale ‘rebuilds’ where the team fit a completely bespoke interior that’s specific to a customer’s personal requirements.

VIZION FOCUS

If I had to choose one word to describe what we do, I’d choose the word ‘special’. We make special products and services for special customers. Our SVO products like the Range Rover SVAutobiography, Range Rover Sport SVR and the F-TYPE SVR, are all creating an aura around our business that our customers will aspire to and our competitors will respect and admire.

John Edwards Managing Director, JLR Special Vehicle Operations

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A connected solution for parts procurement of InPart is completely free for all repairers  Use Secure Parts Procurement based seamless integration with AudaEnterpriseGold  Cloud Secure Parts Procurement  Order Tracking with your suppliers  Integrated Secure messaging Parts Procurement  Live Order Tracking updates for jobs, orders and parts  Secure Parts Procurement  Real time visibility of stock  Order Tracking Real-time visibility of stock and pricing  Parts Procurement  Secure Real time visibility of stock  Link Order with Tracking your preferred suppliers.

Reduced administration  Secure Parts Procurement  Real time visibility of stock  Order Tracking  Reduced administration  Real time visibility  Order Increased accuracyof stock Tracking  Real Reduced administration  time  Increased visibility accuracyof stock  Reduced  Real Ability to administration receive bespoke time visibility of stockquotations  Increased accuracy   Reduced Ability to administration receive bespoke quotations  Increased accuracy Simplisticadministration transparent returns process  Reduced  Ability to receive bespoke quotations  Increased accuracy  Simplistic transparent returns process  Ability to receive bespoke Electronic feed from AEG quotations  Increased accuracy  Ability Simplistic transparent returns process  to receive bespoke quotations  Electronic feed from AEG  Simplistic transparent returns process  Ability to receive bespoke quotations  Simplistic Electronic transparent feed from AEG  returns process  Simplistic Electronic transparent feed from AEG  returns process  Electronic feed from AEG  Electronic feed from AEG

Sales enquiries: 01189 235667

VIZION FOCUS

VW GOLF THE UPDATE Major update for the most successful Volkswagen ever.

Volkswagen is digitalising the most successful model in the Group’s history – the Golf – with a major update. The main focus of the 2017 model year is – alongside new engines, keener design and new assistance systems – a completely new generation of infotainment systems. As a world first in the compact class, the top-of-therange “Discover Pro” system can be operated by gesture control.

With its 9.2-inch screen it forms a conceptual and visual entity with the Active Info Display, which is also new to the Golf.

In parallel to this, the range of online services and apps has also been enlarged. The update

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to the Golf, of which over 33 million have been sold to date, also reflects a new standard for assistance systems in the compact class: technologies such as City Emergency Braking with new Pedestrian Monitoring function, the new Traffic Jam Assist (partially automated driving at speeds of up to 60 km/h) and Emergency Assist, which is also new in this segment, significantly improve safety.

THE GOLF IS THE FIRST COMPACT CAR TO FEATURE GESTURE CONTROL Digital instrumentation and gesture control.The update

of the Golf is most readily visible inside, because the 2017 model year offers a new and increasingly digital display and control concept. It is based on the new Active Info Display and the first infotainment system with gesture control to be offered in a Volkswagen.

Along with this, Volkswagen has updated its whole range of infotainment systems. Its most important characteristic is the sophisticated new design, larger touchscreens and, as outlined above, – in the case of the top-of-the-range “Discover Pro” model – gesture control, which is implemented here for the first time in the Golf’s compact car class.

ALL OUR CARS COME WITH

COURTESY AS STANDARD. Do you think the President picks up his dry cleaning? Of course not, he’s got more important things to do... and so do you.

We know that providing courtesy cars for your customers can slow down your busy day. So why not let us do it for you?

Over 400 rental locations mean 91% of the UK population is only 10 miles away from an Enterprise rental location*. So we’re close to you. Real close.

With tailored cost-effective packages to fit with your business, we’ll manage the whole courtesy car process for you, from start to finish, saving you time to do what you do best - repair cars.

And what’s more, we’ll pick your customers up from wherever they are, for free†. In Britain, we call this superb customer service. In the US, it’s just ‘awesome’.

enterprise.co.uk | 01784 221 300

*Experian 2012

X-AUTOS

Episode 1: A Busy Professional Bodyshop turning out 50 cars a week on average

RR

... that wasn‛t there when he came in!!

W HI R

Mr. Smart claims there is some damage on his car...

W WHIR RR HI RR R

Damn! – I thought we‛d had a better month than that!

RR

R HI W

Not again! – that‛s the 5th one this month!?!

Readiruscepd.a rep

That night

Next day in the mixing room

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RevLoenstue

£33,024 I am the ghost of profit past

CHECKmate Champion records all the non-accident damage...

...BEFORE every vehicle enters the bodyshop!

...yada...yada... yada...8pm

A short while later.

Projections are through the roof, just like our expansion plans...

...CHECKmate Champion!

Mild-mannered Ernie...

One step ahead of you boss.

Projected Profit

but... I just finished work early... and forgot about our date

Doh!!

...take the afternoon off Ernie!!

Will Checkmate Champion rescue his date? Can Checkmate Champion improve your swing? Does Checkmate Champion have a weakness? ...to be continued.

To find out more visit www.autoflow.ltd.uk

Companion App to AutoFlow 4:G Capture images directly at any stage Book time to jobs in situ Review work methods in situ

o WorkM8 further streamlines your work flow o Portable solution – WorkM8 goes where you go o Capture and upload images remotely o Review work methods on your device o Book time onto one or more job tasks

Designed to Deliver To arrange for an on-site or online demonstration of any of our products, or to discuss potential new projects with our team please contact the office on 01625 860545 or visit www.autoflow.ltd.uk

VIZION FOCUS

VOLVO HAS BEEN VOTED TECH BRAND OF THE YEAR AT THE INAUGURAL CAR TECH AWARDS. The new awards recognise the best in automotive technology, as voted for by the experts at Carbuyer, the car review and advice service, and technology website Alphr.com. Volvo was recognised for its groundbreaking technology, such as the pioneering Sensus touchscreen control system in its new large premium models, the S90, V90 and XC90. Its all-new Drive-E powertrains, designed to offer efficient power using a mixture of advanced injection technology and electrification, impressed the judges, too.

The company was also praised for its forward-thinking approach to technology partnerships, such as the collaboration with Uber, which will result in Volvo's

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sophisticated SPA platform underpinning Uber's next generation of autonomous-drive vehicles.

Stuart Milne, editor of Carbuyer, said: "For years, Volvo has been synonymous with safety, but it is now becoming a tech brand in its own right. It'll use autonomous technology to ensure no one is killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo by 2020 – a remarkable goal. It has used technology to downsize its engines with no impact on performance, and has delivered a market-leading infotainment system in Sensus.

Yet it's still finding time to partner with Uber and bringing itself to the heart of Silicon Valley as a result. It's the blend of thinking about the technology

of today as well as the tech of tomorrow that makes Volvo our Tech Brand of the Year.

The XC90 SUV won two further Car Tech Awards. It was awarded 'Most user-friendly tech – over £25,000', while its phenomenal Bowers & Wilkins sound system was voted 'Best audio system – over £25,000'.

Everything Volvo does is 'designed around you', which means that every piece of technology is as intuitive and user-friendly as possible. So not only are most of the XC90's functions controlled via its advanced Sensus touchscreen or the intelligent voice-control system (both of which are fitted as standard), you won't be baffled by whichever you choose to use.

AS IF IT WASN’T HARD ENOUGH TO WRITE OFF A VOLVO Before you declare a borderline write-off on a Volvo car, contact us for help bringing repair costs within the allowable maximum.

Simple - Just email us the application form Fast - You’ll have a decision within 4 hours borderline@volvobodyandpaint.co.uk or Audatex network code of OAGTL A

www.vizionnetwork.co.uk