The Garage 366

The 

Supporting the Independent Garage and MOT sector 

Issue 366 

September 2024 

THE FORMULA 1 ® 

EXHIBITION OPENS 

AT EXCEL LONDON 

PACKED WITH 

ALL THE LATEST 

GARAGE AND 

WORKSHOP 

NEWS, EVENTS 

& FEATURES 

A1 Makes Remote 

Diagnostics Even 

Easier with Launch of 

Mega Bundle 

Formula 1 World Champion Damon Hill visited 

The Formula 1 Exhibition London for a first look 

at the eagerly anticipated new show 

New Growth & 

Skills Levy needed 

urgently, as IMI 

reveals 18,000 

automotive 

apprentices were 

lost as a result of 

COVID-19 

Please visit our website - www.garageandmot.com 

1 Front.indd 1 29/08/2024 15:59

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19614_NFU_MUTUAL_MOTOR_TRADE_A4_AD.indd 5 13/09/2024 10:19




Issue 366 

September 2024 

MONTHLY 

ISSUE IN PRINT 

AND ONLINE 

DIRECT TO 

GARAGES & MOT 

CENTRES 

Welcome to the latest issue of The Garage. 

Reaching a significant 

proportion of the UK’s 

independent Garage and MOT 

sector, The Garage has established 

itself as one of the major trade titles 

for authoritative, independent news 

and features. 

The latest on new products, 

updates on important regs, info on 

key events and partnerships, and a 

voice for the motor ombudsman, the 

magazine, weekly Pulse email and the 

website keep the community up to 

speed. 

Subscribe to 

The Garage 

To ensure you receive a printed copy of The Garage every issue, visit our website 

and input your details. Don’t forget the magazine is FREE to receive. 

www.garageandmot.com 

The Garage has established 

itself as one of the major 

trade titles in the UK servicing 

the independent garage 

sector. With subscription 

and free circulation it arrives 

on the principals desk of the 

independent garage sector 

every month. The online 

version of the magazine is 

emailed to over 10,000 people 

in the automotive industry 

every month. 

Contact us 

Editor 

Paul Gregory 

paul.gregory@ppmedia.co.uk 

Design & Layout 

Mark Blacker 

mark.blacker@ppmedia.co.uk 

Advertising Manager 

Nat Excell 

Natalie@talk-media.uk 

Telephone: 01732 445674 

/ 07791 094967 

The Garage is published by: 

Partnership Publishing Limited 

PO Box 373 

Telford 

TF1 9FH 

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Website: www.garageandmot.com 

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@garageandmot 

For more details or to book your 

next advert contact Nat Excell on: 

Every care is taken over the accuracy of material in The Garage but the publishers cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Views and 

opinions of contributors, advertisers and interviewees to The Garage are not necessarily those of the publishers who cannot accept responsibility for such 

contributions. 


01732 445674 | 07791 094967 

© Partnership Publishing 2020 / 2024 - All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. 

3 Welcome.indd 1 29/08/2024 15:36

CONTENTS 

Inside 

News and Products 

5. BILSTEIN-presents high-tech for the perfect driving experience 

at automechanika 2024. 

6. Clarios-Invests c.€200 million in the production of Advanced 

Battery Technologies in Europe. 

8. GSF Car Parts-expands network with new branches in Ruislip 

and Stockton. 

10. Onkar - Quality is everyone’d responsibility - Being banned 

from going back to the garage that I started and built up. 

12. IMI-New Growth & Skills Levy needed urgently, as IMI reveals 

18,000 automotive apprentices were lost as a result of 

COVID-19. 

14. Gripclad-Workplace safety must always be the top priority for 

every employer. One frequently overlooked risk is the inspection 

pit commonly found in UK workshops. 

17. The Formula 1® Exhibition opens at ExCeL London-British 

motorsport legend and 1996 Formula 1 World Champion Damon 

Hill visited The Formula 1 Exhibition London for a first look at the 

eagerly anticipated new show. 

20. The Motor Ombudsman-has revealed a generational divide in 

the confidence of UK drivers when buying and owning a car. 

Features 

22-31. SERVICING & DIAGNOSTICS 

With new research showing the shortage of ADAS-qualified techs continuing to grow, 

Thinkcar UK is incentivising garages to make ADAS a priority through a new special offer 

where buyers of its ADAS Mobile foldable calibration frame kit receive a free Thinktool Euro 

Expert 195 diagnostic tool with every purchase. 

A1 Remote Diagnostics has announced the launch of its A1 Remote Mega Bundle, the first 

ever complete package of everything needed to perform remote diagnostic work for under 

£1000. 

Autoelectro advises technicians to check vehicle software and ECU communication to avoid 

alternator misdiagnosis. Castrol continues to evolve its lubricant offering to protect a diverse 

UK car parc, and Straightset talks about the Importance of vehicle lift replacement: When to 

replace and with what. 

Your data 

The Garage is published by Partnership Publishing and is produced 12 times a year. Your data and privacy is important to us. We would never give this 

information away or sell it onto a third party. You would only receive magazines or information from one of Partnership Publishing’s publications. 

However, if you wish to stop receiving The Garage and would like us to erase all of your information from our databases then email your name, 

company and address to paul.gregory@ppmedia.co.uk 

4 THE GARAGE 

4 Contents.indd 1 29/08/2024 12:52

ADVERTISEMENTFEATURE 

BILSTEIN presents high-tech 

for the perfect driving experience 

at automechanika 2024 

When it comes to sophisticated 

dynamics, an optimal driving 

experience and top-class technical 

performance in suspension technology, 

many vehicle manufacturers equip their 

models with BILSTEIN ex works. BILSTEIN’s 

aftermarket products also benefit from the 

experience gained from series production 

and close cooperation with OEMs. The shock 

absorber expert is bringing its OE expertise 

directly to the spare parts market. 

To ensure that independent workshops 

can also service the latest models, 

BILSTEIN’s brand philosophy is to make OE 

innovations available to the aftermarket as 

quickly as possible – and to offer a range of 

corresponding suspension upgrades thanks 

to its extensive expertise. At this year’s 

automechanika, which will take place in 

Frankfurt from 10 to 14 September 2024, 

visitors to the BILSTEIN stand in Hall 4.0, 

Stand C11, will be able to get a first-hand 

impression of this strategy. 

Among other things, BILSTEIN will be 

showing various active air suspension 

modules for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class 

W223. An optimised comfort version is on 

display for the ‘normal’ S-Class (with short 

and long wheelbase) and an air suspension 

module with a specially tuned gas pressure 

shock absorber for the sportier AMG version, 

which significantly improves the handling 

characteristics of the large sedan. Both 

air spring modules are integrated into the 

on-board electronics in order to be able 

to adjust immediately to different driving 

and road conditions, thus always combining 

optimal driving comfort with the highest 

driving safety. 

For even sportier drivers, the new 

BILSTEIN EVO-SE street performance 

suspension for the Porsche 911 (992) will 

be on display at the automechanika stand. 

Thanks to BILSTEIN’s OE development 

expertise, it can be easily connected to 

the PASM system in the workshop. From 

the cockpit, individual settings 

can be configured to enable even 

sharper handling while at the same 

time providing amazing suspension 

comfort. 

WAY AHEAD. 

www.bilstein.com 

www.facebook.com/bilstein.de 

www.instagram.com/bilstein 

www.youtube.com/bilsteinde 

Photos: Copyright BILSTEIN 2024 

5, Bilstein Advertorial.indd 1 29/08/2024 10:11

NEWS 

Clarios Invests c.€200 million in the Production 

of Advanced Battery Technologies in Europe 

The battery manufacturer Clarios 

invests approximately €200 million 

in its European plants and is thus 

expanding continuously its production 

capacities for advanced adsorbent glass 

mat (AGM) vehicle batteries starting in 

2022. As of 2026, around 50% more units 

will be produced each year. In Europe, 

Middle East and Africa (EMEA), Clarios is 

operating 13 production sites including two 

recycling centres. These investments are a 

part of Clarios’ strategy to invest globally 

in projects specifically focused on AGM 

production in the short-term which allows 

Clarios in EMEA and its aftermarket brand 

VARTA Automotive to strengthen the leading 

position in this region by driving our ability 

to deliver to customers even quicker than 

before. The expansion creates around 150 

attractive jobs in modern plants in Germany, 

Spain, Czech Republic and France enabling 

the building of production clusters bringing 

the “in-the region for-the region strategy” 

in EMEA to life. 

Essential for sustainable mobility 

The automotive industry is changing 

fundamentally, driven by the trends of 

electrification, digitalization, and circularity. 

As platforms become increasingly complex 

and power-hungry, the need for developing 

advanced low-voltage systems capable 

of providing the energy needed for 

performance and safety, becomes even 

more crucial. We expect the global demand 

for advanced low-voltage systems will grow 

by 7% per year till 2030. 

AGM batteries from Clarios are essential 

for sustainable mobility. They ensure 

optimum performance in electric vehicles 

and provide constant power for crucial 

safety and comfort functions in both 

electric vehicles and modern commercial 

vehicles. In vehicles with a combustion 

engine, they enable fuel-saving functions 

such as start-stop technology. 

In Europe, Clarios is the undisputed 

market leader with its advanced battery 

solutions, which include the vehicle battery 

brand VARTA Automotive: in seven out of 

ten new vehicles with start-stop technology, 

it is the AGM batteries from Clarios that 

start the engine reliably after every stop. 

Furthermore, the xEV batteries for electric 

vehicles, which were launched by VARTA 

Automotive last year, already account for 90 

percent of electrified vehicles on European 

roads and are also suitable for future 

models. 

Focus on central Europe 

The largest expansion of AGM capacity will 

be at the Hanover plant in Germany, which 

is also home to the European headquarters 

of Clarios. The company uses most of the 

Production of AGM batteries in the EMEA region will increase by 

approximately 50% by 2026, creating 150 new jobs, and enabling 

efficient delivery throughout the region 

investment to finance new assets and is also 

optimizing processes and shifting the entire 

site, including case production, to advanced 

battery technologies. “Through extensive 

automation, we are increasing productivity 

at the site and, at the same time, securing 

the existing jobs there”, highlighted Dr. 

Werner Benade, President EMEA at Clarios. 

To create the necessary space, a 

significant part of the production of 

conventional batteries and the advanced 

EFB batteries for original equipment 

manufacturers (OEMs) has been relocated 

from Hanover to Česká Lípa in the Czech 

Republic. Additionally, plastic housing for 

AGM batteries and small parts such as 

plugs and handles will also be increasingly 

produced in Česká Lípa. Additional 

capacities were also created at this site: 

Clarios is expanding the factory building and 

investing in new production machines worth 

a two-digit million amount. 

In Zwickau, Germany, Clarios already 

operates the largest production plant 

for AGM batteries worldwide. The annual 

capacity here has increased significantly, 

which is based on an investment volume 

of several millions. Since the start of AGM 

production in 2002, more than 80 million 

batteries have been supplied from Zwickau. 

The recycling operation in Krautscheid, 

Germany, supports the AGM expansion 

with increased recycling of lead alloys 

for the grids used in AGM batteries. The 

Krautscheid site thus complements the 

capacity expansion in the production 

network for Central Europe, which secures 

the supply to vehicle manufacturers in the 

region and in the aftermarket. 

An additional production cluster is 

located on the Iberian Peninsula. In the 

future, conventional and EFB batteries for 

original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), 

which were previously manufactured in 

Hanover, will be produced at the Spanish 

sites in Burgos and in the battery case 

plant in Ibi. Production capacities will be 

expanded accordingly. To do so, equipment 

will be moved from Hanover and an 

investment of millions will be made at 

the two Spanish sites. Clarios has already 

invested several million in the Ibi plant over 

the past three years. 

In addition, the plant in Guardamar, 

Spain, will also manufacture 50 percent 

more Powerframe® grids for EFB batteries, 

and will be equipped with an additional 

production line to do so. 

The production cluster on the Iberian 

Peninsula will also recycle lead from old 

batteries locally. The recycling plant in 

Media del Campo has been a crucial part of 

the internal supply chain since 2022. 

“All these investments in our leading AGM 

technology ensure that our customers in 

the OEM and aftermarket business receive 

the best and most efficient batteries”, 

explained Benade. “We will thus continue 

to support all electric and safety-relevant 

functions for all vehicle types for a long time 

to come. We are pushing forward with our 

solutions for transforming the automotive 

industry by implementing the trends of 

electrification, digitalization and circular 

economy.” 

AGM and Power Frame grid technology 

AGM stands for Absorbent Glass Mat and 

is a further development of the lead-acid 

battery. The electrolyte is bound within a 

glass fibre mat. This prevents electrolyte 

stratification, the main cause of faults in 

lead starter batteries; this significantly 

increases service life. An additional benefit 

of AGM technology is the very high charging 

capacity. 

The patented Power Frame grid 

technology provides a strong frame 

for the AGM batteries from Clarios to 

ensure increased durability and corrosion 

resistance, as well as a formidable starting 

performance and improved current 

flow. The Power Frame grids can also be 

manufactured in a more environmentally 

friendly manner than conventional designs. 

VARTA® is a registered trademark of 

Clarios. 

6 THE GARAGE 

06 News VARTA.indd 1 29/08/2024 10:12

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VARTA FP.indd 1 29/08/2024 10:10

NEWS 

GSF Car 

Parts 

Expands 

Network 

with New 

Branches in 

Ruislip and 

Stockton 

GSF Car Parts, the UK’s leading car parts distributor, has announced 

the opening of two new branches in Ruislip and Stockton, further 

solidifying its commitment to nationwide expansion. These new 

branches bring the total number of GSF locations closer to 200, 

continuing the company’s momentum following a series of openings 

over the past few months. 

Ruislip 

The Ruislip branch spans 6,424 sq ft and 

supports the network with four new vans 

and three bikes, ensuring rapid delivery 

services to local garages and click-andcollect 

customers. The branch is fully 

operational and has created employment 

for 11 full-time staff members. This 

expansion will allow GSF to better serve 

customers in West London, enhancing the 

availability of essential parts and improving 

service quality. 

Matthew Ladmore, Ruislip Branch 

Manager at GSF Car Parts, said, “Opening 

our new branch in Ruislip is an exciting 

step for us and we’re honoured to have 

Executive Chairman, Sukhpal Singh 

Ahluwalia join us to mark the occasion. 

This location allows us to strengthen 

our presence in West London, ensuring 

that local garages and customers have 

faster access to the parts they need. 

We’re looking forward to building strong 

relationships with the Ruislip community 

and beyond.” 

Stockton 

The Stockton branch covers 5,754 sq ft 

and employs 14 full-time staff members. 

Located strategically in the Northeast, 

this branch is equipped with six new vans, 

ensuring a more efficient service to local 

garages and customers. The Stockton 

branch is expected to play a crucial role 

in GSF’s operations across North East 

England, enhancing logistical capabilities 

and customer satisfaction. 

Andy Gardner, Stockton Branch 

Manager at GSF Car Parts, commented, 

“The launch of our Stockton branch 

marks a significant expansion of our 

services in the Northeast. This facility will 

enhance our ability to meet the demands 

of local customers swiftly and efficiently, 

ensuring that we continue to deliver the 

high standards of service that GSF is 

known for.” 

The car parts distributor now employs 

over 3,000 team members nationwide. 

These two branch openings follow 

the recent launch of a new branch in 

Chessington and Regional Distribution 

Centre in Stockport last month, as well as 

a significant investment in a new 500,000 

sq ft National Distribution Centre in 

Wolverhampton. 

Steve Horne, CEO of GSF Car Parts 

commented on the latest expansion: 

“We are delighted to introduce our 

newest branches in Ruislip and Stockton 

as part of our ongoing growth strategy. 

Expanding our network allows us to 

bring our extensive product range and 

exceptional service closer to customers 

across the UK. We are committed to 

making car parts more accessible, and 

these new branches are a testament to 

our dedication to serving the automotive 

industry.” 

8 THE GARAGE 

08 News GSF.indd 1 29/08/2024 10:13

PRODUCTS 

SATA Launches New Series of 

Electronic Torque Wrenches 

SATA introduces a new series of electronic torque wrenches 

available in four specialized versions in both 3/8” and 1/2” sizes, 

featuring torque or torque + angle function. 

SATA electronic torque wrenches are 

precision-engineered for effortless and 

accurate torque applications. With a 

remarkable calibration accuracy of +/- 3% 

for torque and +/- 1% for angle and the 

72-tooth ratcheting mechanism with a tight 

5° swing arc the new SATA electronic torque 

wrenches ensure efficient operation in 

compact spaces while maintaining enhanced 

torque and angle precision. 

Their user-friendly digital display simplifies 

torque settings in five diverse units (Nm, lb. 

ft, lbf. in, kgf. m, kgf. cm), enabling seamless 

digital torque measurement tracking. To 

improve user experience, multiple alerts 

are incorporated, including sound, light, and 

vibration, ensuring users never miss their 

target torque. 

The basic versions of SATA electronic 

torque wrenches feature peak & track mode, 

while the advanced versions integrate peak 

torque, peak angle, torque & angle, and 

track mode. This eliminates the need for 

additional tools such as an angle gauge or 

protractor when using the torque wrench. 

Catering to the needs of professionals 

across various industries the new line of 

SATA electronic torque wrenches elevates 

torque applications with precision and 

reliability. 

For added convenience, each electronic 

torque wrench comes with a durable 

storage case, providing a safe and secure 

way to carry the tool on the go. 

Key Features at a glance 

l Calibrated to +/- 3 % for increased 

torque accuracy 

l 72-tooth ratcheting mechanism with 

5° swing arc 

l Digitally tracks torque measurement 

l Multiple alerts when the target torque is 

reached (sound, light, and vibration) 

l Oil- and solvent-resistant handle 

l Durable storage case to carry the tool on 

the go 

SATA Electronic Torque Wrenches 

3/8” Drive Electronic Torque Wrench (13.5- 

135 Nm, 0.1 Indexing) 

3/8” Drive Electronic Torque Wrench with 

Angle Function (13.5-135 Nm, 0.1 Indexing) 

1/2” Drive Electronic Torque Wrench (34- 

340 Nm, 0.1 Indexing) 

1/2” Drive Electronic Torque Wrench with 

Angle Function (34-340 Nm, 0.1 Indexing) 

For more about SATA visit: www.satatools.eu 

THE GARAGE 9 

09 News SATA.indd 1 29/08/2024 10:14

ONKAR CHAHAL 

Quality is 

everyone’s 

responsibility 

By Onkar Chahal 

My daughters clutch failed on her Clio. I’m now an employee 

so I can’t stay late and change it for her like I would have. 

So, I call my old garage, speak to my former receptionist 

and ask if he can fit it in for me. No problem, he tells me, drop it off 

tonight and we’ll do it tomorrow. Lovely. Problem sorted. 

Very late in the afternoon, I get the call telling me the car is ready. 

I take my daughter down and she takes the car away as I settle the 

bill. All £680 of it! No bother, I tell myself. It’s worth it just to have 

her back on the road in such a short time, so I pay the bill and leave. 

When I get home my daughter tells me the ABS light came on as 

she was driving it home. Bugger! I call the garage but they’re closed 

so I call them again in the morning. Bring it back down for us, they 

tell me, so my daughter takes the car back in and waits. A few hours 

later she gets the call it’s fixed so gets a lift down from her mother. 

The ABS sensor wiring was loose hence the light came back on, 

sorry for the inconvenience, she’s told. Except as she drives away, it 

comes back on. She takes it back and they have to keep it overnight 

to diagnose it again. The next morning, she gets a call to say the ABS 

sensor is broken and needs a new one. She says okay, they supply 

and fit it. They then call back to say it isn’t the sensor but the wheel 

bearing. Again, she agrees, but now she calls me to get my view on 

it. I asked her how much they quoted and she said £130. 

I call the garage and discuss the situation, you need to speak to 

Mark, they tell me. I finish work and pick my daughter up on the way 

to the garage and ask to speak to Mark. Remember, he bought the 

garage off me, so he knows who I am and what level I worked at. 

He opens with I can’t believe we’re having this conversation, to 

which I replied, neither do I. He then asks what do I expect, working 

on old cars creates problems that have to be repaired. I agreed, but 

if the garage create those problems then they should put it right at 

their cost, not mine. 

We argue back and forth a little before he asks what do I want? 

I told him in simple terms, that I expect the car repaired properly, 

with no more faults and no further charge. He then gives my 

Banned from going back 

to the garage that I started 

and built up! 

Why was I so difficult? 

daughter the key and tells me to never come back. 

Just to be clear, I was banned from going back to the garage that I 

started and built up! 

Why was I so difficult? Because I didn’t appreciate being lied to. 

ABS sensors can’t be loose. You either fit them correctly or not. The 

road test would have shown the fault, had they bothered to carry 

one out, or they did and chose to ignore the fault. Fitting two parts 

to fix one fault that did not exist before also shows a bad diagnostic 

process. 

What do I think happened? Taking the drive shaft out of the hub 

they caught the reluctor ring or damaged the sensor. Rather than 

own up and replace it before returning the car, they took a gamble 

on returning it as is, hoping it would work. Either way, the road test 

should have shown something was wrong and it should have been 

repaired before hand over. 

There’s only one way to do a job and that’s properly. Like I said 

earlier, quality is everyones responsibility, isn’t it? But me getting 

banned from my former garage that makes me laugh the most. 

Oh, the irony! 

10 THE GARAGE 

Bow 

10,11 Opinion Onkar.indd 1 29/08/2024 10:15

NEWS 

Latest Department of Transport 

Statistics Show Increased Car Usage 

Providing Growth Opportunities for 

Independent Garages 

Stuart James, CEO of the Independent Garage Association 

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) responds to the 

latest official statistics on daily domestic transport usage by 

mode, released by the Department of Transport. The data, 

which compares current transport usage to pre-COVID-19 levels, 

reveals a significant trend: car usage has not only returned to but 

has surpassed pre-pandemic levels, while public transport modes, 

including buses, National Rail, and the London Tube, continue to fall 

behind. 

According to the report, as of August 2024, motor traffic in Great 

Britain has reached 103% of its pre-COVID-19 levels, indicating a 

strong and sustained reliance on private vehicles. In contrast, public 

transport usage remains below pre-pandemic levels, with buses 

outside of London at 70%, National Rail at 88%, and the London 

Tube at 75% of 2019 usage levels. 

Stuart James, Chief Executive of the IGA, commented: 

“The latest data from the Department of Transport highlights a 

critical shift in how the public is choosing to travel post-pandemic. 

The sustained increase in car usage presents a significant 

opportunity for the independent garage sector. As more people rely 

on their personal vehicles, the demand for maintenance, repairs, 

and overall vehicle care will continue to grow. Independent garages 

are uniquely positioned to meet this demand, providing essential 

services that ensure vehicle longevity and safety.” 

The IGA recognises the importance of this trend for independent 

garages across the country. 

According to data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ 

Association (ACEA) in its ‘Vehicles In Use’ report last year, the 

average car in the UK is now 10 years old. This average age will likely 

increase in the coming years due to a notable decline in new car 

sales. ACEA’s findings show that 21.5 million of the 36.7 million cars 

registered in the UK are less than 10 years old. 

As the public continues to favour private vehicle usage over public 

transport, independent garages can expect to see a steady or even 

increased volume of customers requiring a wide range of services, 

from routine check-ups and diagnostics to more complex repairs. 

Key Insights for Independent Garages: 

● Increased Service Demand: With traffic levels exceeding pre- 

COVID-19 levels, independent garages should prepare for a sustained 

increase in service demand. This trend offers the potential for 

growth and expansion within the sector. 

● Focus on Vehicle Longevity: As car owners rely more heavily 

on their vehicles, there will be a heightened focus on maintaining 

performance and extending their lifespan. Independent garages are 

well-equipped to offer specialised services to meet these needs. 

● Shifting Service Areas: The data also suggests that as public 

transport usage remains lower, there may be a shift in service 

demand from urban centres to suburban and rural areas, where car 

dependency is higher. Garages in these regions could see increased 

business as a result. 

Conclusion: 

The IGA encourages all independent garages to embrace this 

opportunity, as evolving market dynamics present a chance for them 

to continue thriving in the changing transportation landscape. 

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10,11 Opinion Onkar.indd 2 29/08/2024 10:18

NEWS 

GCSE Results Day 

New Growth & Skills Levy needed urgently, as IMI reveals 18,000 

automotive apprentices were lost as a result of COVID-19 

Employers and Training Providers need clarity 

to capitalise on the 2024 GCSE cohort 

As students prepare to find out the 

results of their GCSEs, the Institute 

of the Motor Industry (IMI) is hoping 

employers and training providers will 

receive clarity on the Growth & Skills Levy 

so that apprenticeships can be a clear 

career path for the 2024 post-16 cohort. 

For the automotive sector this is a critical 

issue. 

New analysis from the IMI reveals 

COVID-19 had a devastating impact on 

apprenticeships across the sector. ‘The 

Impact of COVID-19 on UK Automotive 

Apprenticeships and the Road to 

Recovery’ shows that at the height of 

the pandemic, apprenticeship starts 

plummeted by more than half. They have 

not yet returned to previous levels. 

Prior to the pandemic an average of 

14,000 individuals started automotive 

apprenticeships every year in the UK. At 

the height of the pandemic - in 2021 - 

starts fell to just 6,300. Despite a steady 

increase since the 2021 low, 2023 saw 

fewer than 10,000 new apprenticeships 

begin. 

The IMI estimates that the sector has 

already lost 16,700 apprenticeships as a 

result of the pandemic and the ongoing 

impact means the sector will ultimately 

have lost around 18,000 apprentices. 

Assuming current trends, it will take until 

2031 to reach pre-pandemic levels and 

a further nine years to recoup the lost 

18,000. 

The sharp decrease in new apprentice 

12 THE GARAGE 

12,13 News IMI 2 GCSE And IGA.indd 1 29/08/2024 10:23

numbers raises critical implications for the 

automotive sector’s future sustainability 

and competitiveness. In particular, the 

shortfall risks exacerbating the existing 

skills gap – currently at 20,000 vacancies 

– because the pipeline is not being built 

to fill roles as older employees retire and 

skilled workers migrate to other industries. 

“We feel exceptionally hopeful that the 

new Growth & Skills Levy will provide the 

right funding model for employers to use 

apprenticeships to upskill their business”, 

said Kevin Finn, Executive Chair of the 

IMI. “However, we are concerned that this 

might not be in time for this year’s GCSE 

cohort.” 

The IMI report details how fostering 

flexible apprenticeship structures, 

capitalising on a diverse age spectrum, 

ensuring regional inclusivity, and 

fortifying supply chains will help address 

the profound implications of the 

apprenticeship shortfall in the automotive 

sector. It is hoped that the new Growth & 

Skills Levy will give businesses the flexibility 

they need to spend their levy funds to 

deliver apprenticeship programmes as 

well as access modular training to equip 

existing staff with future-proofed skills. 

Other IMI recommendations include: 

● Industry Collaboration to actively 

promote the benefits of a career in the 

industry. 

● Flexible Apprenticeship Structures that 

blend traditional hands-on training with 

digital platforms to provide more 

resilience against future disruptions. 

● Promotion of Higher-Level 

Apprenticeships to tap into a more 

diverse talent pool, addressing the skills 

gap more comprehensively. 

● Robust Supply Chain Management to 

provide more resilience and open more 

avenues for apprenticeships in varied 

segments of the production process. 

● Engaging an Older Workforce to bridge 

the immediate skills gap. 

● Promoting Regional Balance to ensure 

talent cultivation is spread more evenly 

across the UK. 

“As the automotive sector stands 

on the precipice of transformative 

technologies and sustainable mobility 

solutions, injecting new energy into 

the apprenticeship model is not just 

a recovery strategy for the sector”, 

concluded Kevin Finn. “It is also a critical 

pathway to attract the next generation of 

young people into what is arguably one of 

the most exciting and fast-moving sectors 

in the UK economy.” 

Download the full IMI report: https:// 

tide.theimi.org.uk/sites/default/ 

files/2024-05/Post%20covid%20 

apprentice.pdf 

THE GARAGE 13 

12,13 News IMI 2 GCSE And IGA.indd 2 29/08/2024 18:38

WORKSHOPSAFETY 

SECURE THE PIT, 

PROTECT LIVES 

Workplace 

safety must 

always be the top 

priority for every 

employer. 

While many workplaces implement 

measures to prevent accidents, 

continually evaluating and 

addressing potential hazards is crucial. 

Don’t forget this: “One frequently 

overlooked risk is the inspection pit 

commonly found in UK workshops.” 

Despite being below ground level, falls 

into these pits are classified as ‘falls 

from height,’ which can be extremely 

dangerous. 

In the past five years, the Health and 

Safety Executive reported over 7,000 

injuries and 33 fatalities in the motor 

repair industry, with 20% of these 

incidents caused by slips and trips. 

we can facilitate covers in several types of pits 

An uncovered or poorly covered 

inspection pit not only presents a danger 

but also exposes employers to potential 

liability claims. Imagine the peace of mind 

of knowing such risks could be effectively 

managed. 

Historically, wooden planks and metal 

grilles have been used to cover pits. 

However, these can be challenging to 

clean, absorb harmful substances, they 

are very slippery and deteriorate over 

time, becoming a significant hazard. So, 

what’s the modern solution? 

Introducing GripClad: Your Safety 

Partner 

GripClad is a leading provider of antislip 

safety solutions. It serves various 

industries, including construction, 

engineering, and motor repair. Its products 

are designed to enhance safety for 

employees and the public, with its GRP 

Grating Covers offering an ideal solution 

for workshop inspection pits. 

14 THE GARAGE 

14,15 Gripclad.indd 1 29/08/2024 10:26

GripClad’s GRP Grating Covers 

provide a comprehensive 

solution to the challenges posed 

by inspection pits in modern 

workshops. Adopting this proven 

technology can create a safer 

working environment and ensure 

peace of mind for yourself and your 

employees. 

Contact GripClad Today 

For more information, 

call GripClad at 023 8040 6796 

or visit: 

https://gripclad.co.uk/applications/ 

garage-inspection-pit/ 

Why Choose GripClad GRP Grating 

Covers? 

1. Easy Installation 

GripClad can custom manufacture a system to fit 

your existing inspection pit perfectly. Their design 

team will collaborate with you to ensure a seamless 

installation. 

2. Safe to Walk On 

The GRP design is specifically engineered for 

pedestrian use. Its anti-slip surface ensures safe 

footing once installed. 

3. Lighter and Stronger 

GripClad’s GRP Grating Covers are lighter and more 

manageable than traditional materials, making 

them easy to remove for pit access and requiring 

less storage space. 

4. Corrosion-Free 

GRP material is resistant to corrosion from salts, 

acids, and alkalis. It also withstands wear, tear, and 

impact, avoiding the warping issues associated with 

steel grilles. 

5. Simple Maintenance 

The open mesh design of the GRP Grating Covers 

allows for easy visibility, ventilation, and cleaning. 

6. Enhanced Visibility 

GripClad GRP Grating Covers serve as a visual 

safety reminder and are available in yellow, green, 

and light grey. 

GRP GRATING VEHICLE 

INSPECTION PIT COVERS 

GRP Grating Vehicle Inspection Pit offers 

increased safety and product longevity 

over wooden planks. Our inspection 

pit grating covers come in 38mm and 

50mm deep, plus special raised packers 

if you have deeper rebates. Our service 

and product advice goes above and 

beyond every other competitor. 

BENEFITS OF GRIPCLAD’S 

GRP FLOOR GRATING 

For more information call us today. 

TEL: 023 8040 6796 

enquiries@gripclad.co.uk 

www.gripclad.co.uk/applications/garage-inspection-pit/ 

Lightweight and easy 

to lift and shift 

Safe anti-slip walking 

surface 

Cut to manageable size and 

easily slotted and laid 

If no angle, use our ramp 

edging 

Anti-slip surface 

Virtually zero maintenance 

Neat and tidy look 

THE GARAGE 15 

14,15 Gripclad.indd 2 29/08/2024 10:27

WORKSHOPNEWS 

Elevating independent workshops: 

MAHA UK MOT workshop 

equipment a wise investment 

While the previous government 

deliberated over the frequency 

of the MOT, no deliberation 

is needed in terms of the 

importance of high-quality 

MOT garage equipment. From 

potential return on investment 

to quality, support, and 

connectivity, MAHA UK provides 

a comprehensive insight that 

explains why investing is the 

correct formula: 

In the pursuit of efficiency and 

profitability, independent workshops 

can find a valuable ally in MAHA UK’s 

MOT workshop equipment. The potential 

return on investment is evident by streamlining 

processes, reducing downtime, and 

increasing throughput. The incorporation 

of innovative but simple-to-use technology 

ensures that each piece of equipment is an 

asset that pays divi-dends over time. 

Quality matters 

MAHA UK’s commitment to quality 

is exemplified in every piece of MOT 

workshop equipment it offers. The MBT 

2250 EUROSYSTEM, approved by the DVSA, 

stands as a testament to the company’s 

dedication to precision and durability. From 

robust motor assem-blies to the ability 

to withstand extreme torque and stress, 

MAHA UK’s equipment guarantees a longer 

lifespan, delivering consistent and reliable 

results. 

Exceptional support and training 

A strategic investment involves not only the 

equipment itself but also the support and 

training that come with it. MAHA UK offers 

technical support and comprehensive 

training programs – given the equipment 

is manufactured by MAHA, who better to 

offer training than MAHA UK’s engineers? 

Workshops can maximize the potential of 

their equipment, minimise downtime and 

stay ahead of industry advancements. 

Seamless connectivity 

Connectivity is not just important 

paramount, it’s a legal require-ment: 

new MOT equipment needs to be able to 

connect to the DVSA MOT testing service. 

Work-shops considering a new roller brake 

tester, for example, need to ensure it’s a 

model that can connect to the MOT testing 

service. 

MAHA UK’s MOT garage equipment, 

including the MBT 2250 EUROSYSTEM 

software, allows seamless integration with 

other modules, transforming the brake 

tester into an all-encompassing workshop 

platform. This connectivity improves 

efficiency and futureproofs the workshop 

for evolving industry demands. 

Furthermore, independent workshops 

face increasing scrutiny in meeting DVSA 

specifications. MAHA UK’s collaboration with 

the Garage Equipment Association (GEA) 

ensures that its equip-ment consistently 

meets the stringent criteria for being ‘green 

coded’ – a marker of equipment that is 

current and fully compatible for use in MOT 

sites. This partnership showcases MAHA 

UK’s commitment to upholding industry 

standards and providing workshops with 

reliable and compliant solutions. 

Conclusion 

For independent workshops seeking 

a strategic edge in the competitive 

automotive landscape, investing in quality 

MOT garage equipment from MAHA UK is a 

shrewd choice. 

The potential return on investment, 

coupled with quality, support, and 

connectivity, positions MAHA UK as a 

trusted partner in elevating workshop 

efficiency, ensuring compliance, and futureproofing 

operations. 

For more information about MAHA UK, go to 

www.maha.co.uk 

16 THE GARAGE 

16 News MAHA 2.indd 1 29/08/2024 10:30

NEWS 

The Formula 1® Exhibition 

Opens At ExCeL London 

For First-Ever UK Show 

The exhibition features seven iconic Championship-winning cars, including 

Lewis Hamilton’s 2018 history-making Mercedes AMG, Max Verstappen’s 2021 

winning Red Bull and Ayrton Senna’s legendary 1988 McLaren MP4/4 

British motorsport legend and 1996 Formula 1 World 

Champion Damon Hill visited The Formula 1 Exhibition 

London for a first look at the eagerly anticipated new 

show. Hill also joined the exhibition’s lead curator Timothy 

Harvey to reveal that Lewis Hamilton’s 2018 record-breaking 

Mercedes AMG F1 W09 EQ Power+ will be exclusively 

displayed at the London show. 

A car that will forever have its place in the history books 

of British motorsport, the W09 led Hamilton to his historymaking 

fifth FIA F1® Drivers’ Championship title in 2019. It 

will undoubtedly be one of the stars of the London show, 

alongside Ayrton Senna’s legendary 1988 title-winning 

McLaren MP4/4 and Max Verstappen’s 2021 winning Red Bull. 

Continued on page 18 

THE GARAGE 17 

18 

17,18,19 F1 Exhibition.indd 1 29/08/2024 10:35

Continued from page 17 

Officially opening its doors on Friday 23rd 

August at ExCeL London, the critically 

acclaimed exhibition, which features 

seven iconic Championship-winning cars, 

will give both British motor racing and all 

sports fans a thrill when it opens in the UK 

for the first time, following successful runs 

in Madrid, Vienna and Toronto. 

Packed with contributions and 

memorabilia from F1®’s greatest teams 

and drivers, the London show pays 

homage to the British Grand Prix and its 

contribution to motorsport, through a 

collaboration with Silverstone Museum. 

In a European first it also features stateof-the-art 

simulators, offering fans the 

opportunity to get behind the wheel of 

an F1® car and win tickets for the 2025 

British Grand Prix, as well as a host of 

interactive experiences for all the family 

to enjoy. 

The full list of cars displayed at the 

London show include: 

● Max Verstappen’s 2021 Championshipwinning 

RB16b 

● 1981 Williams FW07-C 

● Lewis Hamilton’s 2018 Championshipwinning 

Mercedes AMG F1 W09 

● The legendary 1970 Lotus 72 

● Ayrton Senna’s 1988 title-winning 

McLaren MP4/4 

● Mika Häkkinen’s 1999 World Driver’s 

Championship winning McLaren MP4/14 

● The iconic 1961 ‘Sharknose’ Ferrari 156 

Damon Hill, former British racing driver 

and 1996 Formula 1 World Champion 

said: “It’s been an incredible honour to 

be involved in The F1 Exhibition. F1 has 

always been a key part of Britain’s sporting 

heritage, so it is only right for London to 

be the next host city for the exhibition. 

This special show connects fans both old 

and new with the exciting world of F1. I 

cannot wait for visitors to take a journey 

through the history of F1 and learn more 

about the sport that is loved by millions 

around the world. It really is a must see!” 

Emily Prazer, Chief Commercial Officer 

at Formula 1 said: “It’s great to see 

another F1 Exhibition open its doors. This 

new show is another example of how 

emphatically the show has been received 

in Madrid, Vienna, and Toronto. London 

promises to be the biggest edition of the 

F1 Exhibition to date, and I cannot wait for 

fans to take the immersive journey through 

the history and story of Formula 1.” 

7 

18 THE GARAGE 


NEWS 

Timothy Harvey, Lead Curator and 

Producer of The Formula 1 Exhibition 

said: “With seven of the sport’s greatest 

race cars, new artefacts, displays and 

interactive experiences, the London show 

promises to be our best yet. We hope the 

story of Formula 1 continues to inspire new 

audiences and remain hugely grateful to all 

the drivers, F1 teams and private collectors 

who continue to support the project.” 

The exhibition comes to life across 

six unique rooms, each specially 

commissioned for the show and produced 

in partnership with award-winning 

curators, artists, and filmmakers, and 

offering a unique perspective on the 

extraordinary story of Formula 1®. These 

rooms include: Once Upon A Time In 

Formula 1®, Design Lab, Drivers & Duels, 

Revolution by Design, Survival and The Pit 

Wall. 

The journey begins in Once Upon A Time 

in Formula 1®, taking visitors through some 

of the sport’s most defining moments, 

featuring four iconic race cars and 

artefacts; as well as bringing the legend 

of the British Grand Prix to life through 

an exclusive partnership with Silverstone 

Museum. The McLaren MP4/14, Williams 

FW07, Lotus 72 and Sharknose Ferrari all 

feature in this first room. Design Lab offers 

a glimpse of the detail and development 

that goes into every race car, with 

contributions from Williams Racing, Stake 

F1 Team, Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team, 

McLaren Racing and exhibition Principle 

Technical Partner Pirelli. Max Verstappen’s 

winning RB16b takes pride of place in this 

room. 

Drivers & Duels is a race-circuit 

inspired experience, exploring the sport’s 

champions with numerous interactive 

games, a Hall of Fame and unique 

memorabilia. Revolution by Design 

presents the innovations in design and 

technology that is powering the sport 

into the future, with contributions 

from McLaren Racing, Scuderia Ferrari, 

Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team, Classic 

Team Lotus, Susie Wolff and the inclusion 

of Lewis Hamilton’s winning 2019 W09 and 

Ayrton Senna’s legendary McLaren MP4/4. 

Survival, in collaboration with 

Moneygram Haas F1 Team, displays the 

scarcely believable charred remains of 

Romain Grosjean’s car from his 2020 

Bahrain Grand Prix fireball crash and 

is dedicated to the pioneers who have 

sacrificed to improve the sports safety 

throughout time. The Pit Wall, Formula 

1® Exhibition’s final room, then provides 

a thrilling climax with an immersive 

experience that celebrates the sensational 

74-year story of Formula 1®. 

Ticket prices start from £14 for children 

(ages 5-16) and £25 for adults (17+) plus 

booking fees. Group bookings and special 

VIP Podium tickets are also available, 

as well as opportunities for exclusive 

corporate events. 

Visit: www.f1exhibition.com/london for 

more information and to purchase tickets. 

THE GARAGE 19 


NEWS 

Generation gap in ‘Car Confidence’ 

amongst UK drivers revealed by new 

research from The Motor Ombudsman 

Ahead of the arrival of the second 

plate change of the year, research by 

The Motor Ombudsman has revealed 

a generational divide in the confidence 

of UK drivers when buying and owning 

a car 

Baby Boomers (55- to 77-year-olds) 

have emerged as generally being more 

self-reliant and comfortable than 

younger generations when it comes to 

splashing out on a car and maintaining it 

The ‘Garage of Mum and Dad’ is 

becoming increasingly obsolete as 

cars rise in complexity, with garages 

and mechanics picking up the mantle 

to plug any gaps in confidence in 

maintenance ‘know-how’ 

To help boost drivers’ ‘Car Confidence’, 

The Motor Ombudsman offers a 

comprehensive library of resources on 

car buying and maintenance, and an 

online Garage Finder listing reputable 

accredited businesses across the UK 

With the arrival of the new ‘74’ 

vehicle registration just around the 

corner, a Censuswide poll of 1,000 

UK drivers commissioned by The Motor 

Ombudsman has revealed generational 

differences in consumer ‘Car Confidence’ 

when it comes to buying and owning a 

vehicle. The latest findings have also been 

used to create a new series of Motor 

Ombudsman ‘barometers’ to highlight how 

the dial can shift on a yearly basis between 

age groups. 

With the growing choice of makes and 

models available to motorists, and with cars 

often being the second most expensive 

purchase after a home, going it alone, and 

navigating the car buying process solo 

from start to finish, may prove a daunting 

prospect for some. On this subject, the 

research showed that nearly three-quarters 

(71%) of Gen Xers1 would be the most 

inclined to enlist the helping hand of others, 

followed by around 67% of Gen Z2 drivers 

and Millennials (Gen Y)3, and 66% of Baby 

Boomers4, where the latter group may have 

more car buying experience under their belt 

versus their peers. 

When it comes to knowing what fuel 

type would be right for them if they were 

to buy a car, 84% of Boomers would feel 

safe in the knowledge that a petrol or 

diesel-powered model would best suit their 

needs, compared to 76% of Millennials 

and 73% of Gen Z drivers. However, when 

acquiring an electric vehicle (EV), the 

tables turn, with Gen Yers and Gen Zers 

leading the charge in terms of being the 

most self-assured, where around 50% of 

respondents in these generational groups 

have the peace of mind that adopting pure 

battery power would be the ideal method 

of propulsion, albeit there is a little more 

hesitation in these groups with forgoing an 

engine. In addition, with this technology 

being relatively new to market compared 

to filling up at the pumps, confidence in 

getting behind the wheel of an EV falls to 

around a third (34%) for Gen Xers, and to 

about a fifth (21%) amongst those aged 

between 59 and 77. 

In fact, taking the time to do research is a 

critical first step in the car buying process, 

and with Gen Z considered the ‘digital 

natives’ and ‘iGeneration’, they have a 

greater tendency to rely on social media to 

stay up to speed with the latest products, 

advice, and tips, to help decide ‘what’s hot’ 

and ‘what’s not’. 

20 THE GARAGE 

20,21 News TMO.indd 1 29/08/2024 10:38

However, according to one in ten Gen 

Zers (10%), and 11% of Gen Yers in The 

Motor Ombudsman study, misinformation 

on digital platforms is negatively affecting 

self-belief when taking the plunge to buy a 

car. 

Conversely, with Boomers more akin to 

using traditional media to do their research, 

their confidence appears to be far less 

influenced by what is being published by 

users through these prominent online 

platforms, at just 2% of respondents in this 

generational group. 

When asked to divulge other areas where 

confidence may be lacking when buying a 

car, 84% of respondents belonging to Gen 

Z, who are likely to be first-time owners 

after passing their test, would not feel 

confident to step up to negotiate on price 

with a salesperson, with the same applying 

to around two thirds of Gen Xers (68%) and 

Millennials (67%). This is in contrast to their 

older peers, where 39% of Baby Boomers 

would be happy to barter, to help drive an 

even better deal. 

When quizzed about what would be 

top of their wish list to give their ‘Car 

Confidence’ a lift, almost a quarter (23%) 

of Gen Z drivers have called for more 

information to be available on the car 

buying process, and to help select the right 

car according to their needs (compared to 

just 5% and 8% for the over 59s). 

Furthermore, almost a fifth (19%) of 

Gen Z drivers said they needed help 

steering them in the right direction of a 

trusted retailer when compared to their 

older counterparts who require the least 

assistance to identify a reputable seller. 

Beyond the car buying journey, the study 

equally revealed that basic car care skills 

were not as high up on the agenda amongst 

the young, as 66% and 71% of Gen Xers 

are happy to check the oil and air pressure 

in their tyres themselves, versus just 40% 

and 42% for Gen Z when it comes to these 

respective tasks. 

Given this lack of confidence when 

performing at-home car checks and 

tasks alone, Gen Z might be tempted 

to call the ‘Garage of Mum and Dad’ for 

help. However, The Motor Ombudsman’s 

research found this resource is dwindling, 

as 89% of their parents’ generation, 

Gen X, said they were not confident with 

diagnosing and troubleshooting common 

car issues, and almost a third (30%) of Gen 

Xers agreed that modern cars are becoming 

too complicated for the average driver to 

understand. 

This puts the experts – garages and their 

mechanics, in the driving seat, amongst all 

generations, with Baby Boomers being the 

most reliant on their advice (57%), followed 

by Gen Xers at 47%. Furthermore, a third 

(33%) of Millennials, and 31% of Generation 

Z respondents, said they consult online 

videos and 

tutorials to ‘be in the know’, in 

contrast to perusing in-car manuals 

and documentation supplied by vehicle 

manufacturers (29% for Gen Yers and 21% 

for Gen Zers respectively). 

Bill Fennell, Chief Ombudsman 

and Managing Director of The Motor 

Ombudsman, said: “Our research and ‘Car 

Confidence Barometers’ have revealed 

an insightful generation gap, with younger 

drivers, on the whole, tending to feel 

less self-assured in their car buying and 

ownership decisions compared to their 

older and sometimes more experienced 

counterparts. 

“It is clear that, while living in a world 

where so much information is at your 

fingertips, the sheer volume of content 

can be overwhelming. Helping to plug the 

generation gap with valuable motoring 

knowledge that will enable them to navigate 

their driving journey with independence 

and confidence is therefore crucial. 

“On this note, anyone who feels that 

their ‘Car Confidence’ is in need of a 

boost, should actively seek out The Motor 

Ombudsman’s comprehensive and impartial 

library of information covering the car 

buying and ownership experience, and call 

on the expertise provided by reputable 

accredited businesses in our growing UKwide 

network.” 

THE GARAGE 21 

20,21 News TMO.indd 2 29/08/2024 10:38

SERVICINGANDDIAGNOSTICS 

Thinkcar UK incentivises 

ADAS opportunity 

With new research showing the shortage of ADAS-qualified techs continuing to grow, 

Thinkcar UK is incentivising garages to make ADAS a priority through a new special offer 

where buyers of its ADAS Mobile foldable calibration frame kit receive a free Thinktool Euro 

Expert 195 diagnostic tool with every purchase. 

ADAS systems have been a legal 

requirement on new cars since 2022. 

Recent figures from the Institute of the 

Motor Industry (IMI) suggest that while 

around 13% of vehicles now possess some 

degree of level 2 autonomy, which would 

mean they will require ADAS calibration, 

just 2% of UK techs are ADAS qualified, 

and the gap continues to grow. 

More figures from the IMI show that 

there are 21,000 vacant jobs in the sector 

that require candidates to offer key skills, 

including ADAS capabilities. “This means 

work will flow towards businesses with 

both the skills and equipment to pick up 

the slack,” said Alex Gillbanks, Managing 

Director of Impact Diagnostics, the 

specialist supplier behind Thinkcar UK. 

Flexibility is vital for many independents. 

“ADAS calibration equipment can take up 

a lot of space,” said Alex, “but it does not 

have to. Thinkcar UK’s ADAS Mobile is a 

foldable calibration frame that prioritizes 

portability and convenience. Qualified 

technicians can set up the Thinkcar ADAS 

Mobile within half an hour and conduct 

calibration tasks from virtually any 

location.” 

Thinkcar UK’s ADAS Mobile also comes 

with all the relevant accessories and 

includes targets for a wide range of 

manufacturers. This is only the beginning 

of the process though: “The Thinkcar UK 

ADAS Mobile is compatible with Thinkcar’s 

diagnostic scanner series as well,” said 

Alex. 

With this in mind, Thinkcar UK is offering 

the Thinktool Euro Expert 195 diagnostic 

tool for free with every Thinkcar UK ADAS 

Mobile. “This mid-range tool, already one 

of our best-sellers for 2024, is a 9-inch 

professional diagnostic pad that sells for 

£1,350 plus VAT. When you put it together 

with the Thinkcar UK ADAS Mobile, the 

pairing is a powerful combination that will 

enable you to make the most of the ADAS 

opportunity.” 

The Thinkcar UK ADAS Mobile costs 

£9,995 plus VAT. To receive a free 

Thinktool 195 diagnostic tool with the 

ADAS Mobile, please make your purchase 

between 1st September and 31st 

December 2024. 

For more information, visit: 

https://www.thinkcar.uk/ 

22 THE GARAGE 

22, Feature Thinkcar.indd 1 29/08/2024 10:39

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Thinkcar UK FP.indd 1 29/08/2024 10:41


A1 MAKES REMOTE DIAGNOSTICS EVEN 

EASIER WITH LAUNCH OF MEGA BUNDLE 

Diagnostic experts create first remote 

diagnostic bundle for under £1000 

A1 Remote Diagnostics has announced the 

launch of its A1 Remote Mega Bundle, the 

first ever complete package of everything 

needed to perform remote diagnostic 

work for under £1k. 

The product bundle aims to make 

life simpler and quicker for timestrapped 

workshops by being able to 

go from bundle delivery to coding and 

programming, in less than 10 minutes. 

Adam Molloy, operations director, said: 

“There’s a lot of remote products on the 

market, but nothing that goes one step 

further and provides what’s essentially a 

plug-and-go package. 

“With the A1 Remote Mega Bundle, 

we’ve thought of everything. There’s no 

point investing in a remote interface for 

it to just gather dust because you haven’t 

got around to ordering an extra cable. 

“With this, we’re making it super simple 

and cost-effective to reduce key-to-key 

times and eliminate the need to take 

vehicles to a main dealer for coding.” 

The A1 Remote Mega Bundle has been 

created in response to ongoing problems 

that garages, bodyshops, windscreen, 

and fleet companies have with access, 

programming and coding, even when they 

have dealer diagnostic tools. 

Despite its low price point of £999 (plus 

VAT), it lives up to its Mega Bundle name 

and includes: 

l Industry leading A1 Remote Diagnostic 

interface 

l Reliable mobile router with cable 

l Essential GYS battery support unit 

l SIM card 

l 20m cable 

l QR code to access simple set-up 

instructions 

l Unlimited technical support 

l Free express delivery. 

Adam continued: “The Mega Bundle 

represents a saving of over £300 and 

contains everything you need to have all 

the main dealers’ diagnostic services at 

your fingertips, wherever and whenever 

needed. 

“We’re seeing workshops turn jobs 

around in 15 minutes instead of fifteen 

days. Keeping vehicles in the workshop is 

key to getting them back to the customer 

quicker, controlling workflow and invoicing 

the job sooner. 

“The Mega Bundle is going to make 

light work of helping workshops to do just 

that.” 

For more information on the A1 Remote 

Mega Bundle visit: https://a1remote. 

co.uk/shop/ols/products/a1-remotediagnostics-mega-bundle. 

24 THE GARAGE 

24 Feature A1.indd 1 29/08/2024 14:42

A1 REMOTE 

MEGA BUNDLE 

ONE COMPLETE 

REMOTE SOLUTION 

A1 Remote Diagnostics interface 

• A1 Remote Diagnostics interface 

• GYSFLASH A1 Remote 30.12 Diagnostics PL battery interface support unit 

GYSFLASH 30.12 PL battery support unit 

• Mobile GYSFLASH router 30.12 PL battery support unit 

Mobile router 

• Free Mobile sim router card and 20m ethernet cable 

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Autoelectro advises 

technicians to 

check vehicle 

software and ECU 

communication to 

avoid alternator 

misdiagnosis 

With nearly four decades of experience 

as a remanufacturer and specialist 

in starter motors and alternators, 

Autoelectro is trusted to identify and 

communicate new trends, technologies, 

and challenges to its customers. Ironically, 

it is the communication between modern 

alternators and a vehicle’s ECU and 

software that has come to the forefront. 

Each and every one of Autoelectro’s 

starter motors and alternators, of 

which there are more than 5,000 part 

numbers in stock, is built and tested to 

meet or exceed OE specifications. 

During this rigorous process, the team 

has identified that newer alternators, which 

communicate with the vehicle’s ECU to 

determine charge rate and warning light 

controls, can encounter communication 

issues if the vehicle’s software is outdated. 

This may lead to misdiagnosed charging 

faults, where the alternator is wrongly 

blamed when the real issue is simply a 

communication problem! 

Autoelectro’s Harnek Bhogal said: “We 

26 THE GARAGE 

26,27 Feature AutoElectro.indd 1 29/08/2024 17:47

have identified several ECU-controlled 

– and even 48V – part numbers for new 

Ford, Range Rover and Audi models, of 

which the technical support is exclusive 

to us in the aftermarket. Our first piece 

of technical advice for these parts is to 

ensure that the vehicle software is up to 

date before conducting any diagnostic or 

repair work. This step is crucial to avoid 

misdiagnosis and unnecessary replacement 

of functioning alternators.” 

Testing and quality credentials pivotal to 

identifying new trends 

Autoelectro is the largest remanufacturer 

of starter motors and alternators in 

the UK. It has complete control over its 

manufacturing processes, allowing it to 

identify and share emerging trends in the 

industry. 

The company’s ISO 9001 certification is 

another important part of Autoelectro’s 

credentials. Its commitment to exceptional 

product quality and adherence to 

international standards for quality 

management systems is another confidence 

booster for customers. 

Harnek added: “Our ISO 9001 

certification reaffirms our dedication to 

continuous process improvement. This 

strengthens customer confidence and 

guarantees that we deliver reliable and 

premium starter motors and alternators for 

the aftermarket. 

“Additionally, we use many OE 

components in our units, and every starter 

motor and alternator we sell is fully benchtested 

on the latest OE-specification test 

equipment, under load to simulate realworld 

scenarios.” 

Essential support available both in the box 

and online 

To support Autoelectro’s customers, 

technicians receive bespoke part-specific 

technical notes in the box. They can also 

find these via Autoelectro’s 1986 Dashboard, 

which, once an account holder, will also 

provide access to an extensive library of 


online resources, including common faults, 

troubleshooting tips, and industry updates. 

This comprehensive support system ensures 

that technicians have all the tools they need 

to effectively diagnose and resolve issues. 

Harnek concluded: “It’s crucial for 

technicians to review these notes before 

installing replacement parts to prevent 

issues. Our experience shows that these 

notes provide peace of mind for both 

technicians and motor factors. It builds 

trust.” 

For more information, go to 

www.autoelectro.co.uk 

TOP PERFORMERS 

WINNING WORKSHOP SOLUTIONS 

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Motul 8100 Power: Inspired by 8100 X Power, the mandated oil of F4 in the UK, 

the 8100 Power range is for high-performance or tuned engines and is equally 

at home on the roads or on track – the ultimate all-rounder! 

Motul Additives: Wide added-value range with effective solutions for many 

technical issues to improve overall performance. 

Motul Sales, Product information and Technical enquiries contact: 

enquiries@uk.motul.com / www.motul.com I Trade enquiries: 01905 676819 

THE GARAGE 27 

26,27 Feature AutoElectro.indd 2 29/08/2024 18:32


Castrol 

continues 

to evolve its 

lubricant 

offering to 

protect a 

diverse UK 

car parc 

Many of today’s consumers 

are finding themselves more 

disconnected from car 

maintenance, with many not aware of the 

importance of ensuring their vehicles are 

lubricated on a regular and appropriate 

basis. If vehicles aren’t lubricated 

correctly, costly repairs can be required if 

the incorrect oil is used. 

Road congestion has increased 

dramatically over recent years, and a 

typical driver can stop and start up to 

18,000 times a year*, a process that can 

cause wear and slowly damage a car’s 

engine. Castrol MAGNATEC features 

DUALOCK molecules that cling to critical 

engine parts and lock together, forming 

a powerful force-field of protection that 

dramatically reduces both engine warmup 

and stop-start wear by 50%**. 

A significant 15.7 million cars 

manufactured by mainstream OEMs 

across the UK, equivalent to 39.9% of the 

country’s car parc***, can be serviced 

using just five MAGNATEC products. By 

selecting MAGNATEC as their preferred 

lubricant, workshops can simplify their 

inventory management and ensure 

compatibility with a wide range of vehicles, 

including Citroen, Fiat, Ford, Honda, Kia, 

Peugeot, Toyota and Vauxhall cars. 

Engines in hybrid vehicles face additional 

pressures compared to vehicles powered 

solely by pure internal combustion 

engines, because these engines operate 

intermittently, typically swapping to 

electric power when pulling away and 

when operating at lower speeds. Some 

hybrid engines will stop, switch to electric, 

and then re-start up to 500,000 times 

during their lifetime – that’s 10 times more 

than a non-hybrid. 

Vesna Di Tommaso, Castrol Europe CEO, 

says: “As society continues with the shift 

towards electrification, Castrol has been 

busy developing and formulating cuttingedge 

fluids for new-energy vehicles, 

notably with a new range of Castrol ON 

products. These include EV Transmission 

Fluids that deliver enhanced protection of 

the drivetrain while aiding efficiency, EV 

Thermal Fluids that help keep batteries 

cooler to enable ultra-fast charging even 

in extreme conditions, and EV Greases 

that play a vital role in maintaining 

optimum efficiency while extending the 

life of vehicle components.” 

28 THE GARAGE 

28, Feature Castrol.indd 1 29/08/2024 10:50

FROM THE SMALLEST 

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PatFluid ® 

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NEW PatFluid ® Bag Range 

Seven new DPF Additive Bags available now: 

• PatFluid Bag range designed specifically 

for vehicles with flexible pouch DPF 

additive dosing systems. 

• The new Bag range is pre-filled with 

PatFluid additive ensuring easy and 

quick replacement. 

• This complements our current offering 

of the PatFluid 1L, 5L and Transfer Kits 

for vehicles with tank reservoirs. 

• Aids DPF regeneration by lowering the 

combustion temperature of soot trapped 

in the filter. 

• Quality product sold for over fourteen 

years. 

• Cost-effective & highly reliable. 

For more info, please see our website, or 

contact us. 

PatFluid is our aftermarket replacement for 

DPF additives which are used by various 

passenger car and van manufacturers. 

Contact us today: 

Tel +44 (0) 1293 804 770 

info@cdti.com 

www.cdti.com 

THE GARAGE 29 

29 Feature Adverts.indd 1 29/08/2024 17:15


The Importance of Vehicle Lift Replacement: 

When to replace and with what 

In any automotive workshop, 

vehicle lifts are essential pieces of 

equipment. They enable mechanics 

to access the underside of vehicles 

safely and efficiently, making repairs and 

maintenance tasks more manageable. 

However, like any equipment and tool, 

vehicle lifts have a finite lifespan. Over 

time, they can wear down, posing risks 

to both vehicles and those operating 

them. Understanding when to replace 

your vehicle lift and the decisions to 

take when choosing a replacement lift 

will help to maintain a safe, productive 

and effective workshop environment. 

BENEFITS OF UPGRADING 

YOUR VEHICLE LIFT 

1. Enhanced Safety 

Newer vehicle lifts are designed with 

advanced safety features, such as 

automatic locking mechanisms, overload 

protection, and emergency stop 

functions. These features reduce the 

risk of accidents, ensuring a safer work 

environment for your team. 

2. Lower Maintenance Costs 

If your lift is constantly breaking down or 

requiring repairs, it’s a clear sign that it 

may be nearing the end of its life. Regular 

maintenance is necessary, but when the 

cost and frequency of repairs start to 

add up, replacing the lift can be more 

economical in the long run. 

A new lift is less likely to break down, 

saving you money on repairs and 

minimising downtime. Over time, the cost 

savings from reduced maintenance can 

offset the initial investment in a new lift. 

3. Increased Efficiency 

Modern lifts are designed to operate 

more quickly and smoothly, allowing 

mechanics to complete jobs faster and 

efficiently. This increased efficiency can 

lead to higher productivity, enabling your 

workshop to service more vehicles in less 

time. 

4. Better Customer Satisfaction 

With a more reliable and efficient lift, your 

workshop can provide quicker turnaround 

times for customers, leading to improved 

satisfaction and repeat business. 

Replacing an aging vehicle lift is a 

significant investment, but it’s one that 

Before 

can pay off in terms of safety, efficiency, 

and long-term cost savings. By keeping an 

eye out for the signs of wear and tear 

and understanding the benefits of newer 

equipment, you can ensure that your 

workshop continues to operate smoothly 

and safely. 

Decisions to take when choosing a 

replacement lift 

For customers with the looming reality of 

needing to replace equipment, there are 

many considerations when choosing the 

right lift. 

Price; will always be an important factor, 

but weighing this up against quality is a 

balance to make as a lift is a long-term 

investment. 

Choice; is important, not being swayed 

by a narrow choice of what is in stock and 

ensuing you are presented with options 

which suit your lifting requirements. 

Suitability; ensuring the replacement 

lift actually fits in the location can be a 

missed factor, but a costly one. 

Flexibility; rather than replacing like 

After 

for like this is the opportunity to select 

features that your existing equipment 

doesn’t offer; greater capacity, longer 

arm reach, clear floor between posts, 

arms and pads suitable for EV batteries, 

high pad adaptors for concealed pick up 

points. 

Replacing an existing lift within an 

operational workshop requires a level 

of experience to understand what is 

possible with existing structures, building 

works, electrics etc, to ensure your lift 

replacement is hassle free with minimal 

downtime. Our knowledgeable teams have 

over 38 years of experience in garage 

equipment, with a national installation 

team, hands on project leads and 

experienced drawing office, that will not 

only help you source the most suitable 

replacement lift for your needs but ensure 

a smooth installation process. 

Contact our teams on 

info@straightset.co.uk or 01909 480055 

for a no obligation conversation. 

30 THE GARAGE 

30 Feature Straightset.indd 1 29/08/2024 10:51

Protecting 

you and 

your 

workshop 

Verification of Lubricant 

Specifications is an independent 

trade body here to protect you by 

investigating performance claims 

made on lubricant products so that 

you and your customers can be 

assured that the oils you use are what 

they say and can do what is claimed. 

If you have concerns about a 

lubricant, report them to us at 

01442 875922 or 

admin@ukla-vls.org.uk 

www.ukla-vls.org.uk 

AS-235SB 

3.5T TWO POST LIFT 

£1,350 +VAT 

AS-6140TA 

4T TWO POST LIFT 

AS-6150A 

5T TWO POST LIFT 

AS-7530D 

MOBILE SCISSOR LIFT 

AS-7430H LOW ENTRY 

FULL RISE SCISSOR 

£1,699 +VAT £2,450 +VAT £1,699 +VAT £2,799 +VAT 

AS-6745P 

4.2T FOUR POST LIFT 

AS-8240TP 

4T SCISSOR LIFT 

AS-7251 

SINGLE POST LIFT 

AS-24SA 

TYRE MACHINE 

AS-B24 

WHEEL BALANCER 

£3,450 +VAT £5,300 +VAT £2,350 +VAT £740 +VAT £645 +VAT 

This is a sample of our huge range of garage equipment, 

always in stock and ready for immediate despatch. 

Visit the website 

for our full range 

www.automotechservices.co.uk Tel: 01889 579945 

EST 1972 

THE GARAGE 31 

31 Feature Adverts.indd 1 29/08/2024 11:02

TRAINING 

LKQ Academy bolsters 

net-zero offering with 

new hydrogen qualification 

The UK’s leading provider of automotive training LKQ Academy, has launched a new training course on 

servicing hydrogen vehicles to help garages broaden their specialisms while futureproofing industry skills. 

The Hydrogen Vehicle Safety 

Awareness Certification will 

provide learners with an essential 

understanding of safe practice, potential 

dangers and necessary precautions when 

servicing hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles. 

The IMI-approved qualification offers an 

introduction to the specialism, enabling 

technicians to develop their skills as 

hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles take to UK 

roads alongside electric vehicles ahead of 

the ICE ban. 

The day-long course is the latest 

addition to the LKQ Academy’s growing 

portfolio of training that helps garages 

to prepare for a sustainable future. With 

over 20,000 technicians registered to the 

Academy, it has already upskilled more 

than 3,000 in servicing hybrid and electric 

car maintenance and repair. 

LKQ Academy has also introduced a fullday 

course on identifying and fixing AdBlue 

system faults alongside the new hydrogen 

training. 

Lee Chapman, head of support & LKQ 

Academy at LKQ Euro Car Parts said: 

“The refining and transmission of green 

hydrogen is rapidly developing, creating 

more opportunities to expand refuelling 

infrastructure. Carmakers are also 

planning to bring forward new hydrogen 

models in the next few years, alongside 

electric releases, to meet the needs of a 

decarbonised car parc. 

“While there’s strong consensus that 

the future of emission-free vehicles will 

be largely electric, hydrogen still has 

an important role to play as part of the 

net-zero fuel mix. Launching a hydrogen 

dedicated course expands on our support 

to futureproof skills in the aftermarket, 

while creating an opportunity for garages 

to build a valuable specialism.” 

New training comes as the LKQ 

Academy undergoes a major expansion. 

The training provider has plans to open 10 

new centres across the UK, with a branch 

in Manchester being the lates to open in 

April this year. New sites will add to LKQ 

Academy’s existing centres in Tamworth, 

Sunderland and Bristol, alongside 26 

external sites, creating a total capacity of 

11,000 seats on 80 different courses. 

The business has recruited five new 

instructors as part of the expansion so 

far and has signed an exclusive contract 

with Andy Savva, The Garage Inspector, to 

deliver training through the Academy for 

the coming three years. 

To view the full range of courses on 

offer at the LKQ Academy, visit https:// 

lkqacademy.co.uk/course-calendar/ 

32 THE GARAGE 

32 News LKQ Academy.indd 1 29/08/2024 10:52

Products and Services 

Contact Nat Excell on 01732 445674 / 07791 094967 

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Hillier 3x1.indd 1 01/12/2022 15:08 

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T: Nick Phipps. 01959 543562 

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Cla sified Example.indd 1 27/01/2021 13:53:17 

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1 Front.indd 1 21/12/2023 13:11 

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Issue 358 

January 2024 

THE GARAGE 33 

33 Product and Services.indd 1 29/08/2024 09:19

PEOPLE 

People stories and movements from around your industry 

LKQ invests in top 

talent with three 

new leadership 

appointments 

Tony Shearer Matt Robinson Adam Ince 

LKQ UK & Ireland has strengthened its top 

team with the appointment of a new Chief 

Operating Officer, alongside a new Business 

to Business (B2B) Trade Director and 

Divisional Director for the South within LKQ 

Euro Car Parts. 

The leading aftermarket specialist has 

appointed Tony Shearer to Chief Operating 

Officer (COO), who brings 16 years of 

experience within the company to the LKQ 

board. 

As COO, Tony will take responsibility for 

logistics and supply chain operations, as 

well as the commercial operations team 

supporting the UK and Ireland Group. Tony 

will report into Ferdinando Imhof, Chief 

Procurement and Supply Chain Officer. 

Tony moves to the post from his latest 

position as Group Logistics Director, where 

he oversaw LKQ’s major logistics operation 

that delivers more than 55,000 orders daily 

to technicians across the UK and Ireland. His 

promotion follows incumbent COO Richard 

Morgan stepping down from the post ahead 

of retirement. Richard will continue to serve 

on the Executive Board as a Board Advisor. 

LKQ Euro Car Parts has also appointed 

Matt Robinson as its new B2B Trade 

Director. Matt will oversee the motor 

factor’s relationships with more than 

25,000 independent garages and workshops 

nationwide. His focus will also be in shaping 

future strategy development to ensure LKQ 

customers have access to the expertise, 

products and training to support their 

growth. 

Matt joined LKQ five years ago as regional 

manager for the South West, with extensive 

experience in field management and 

retail. He moves from his latest position as 

Regional Director for the South, and will 

report into Chief Commercial Officer, Andy 

Southby. 

Adam Ince will now take over as Divisional 

Director for the South at LKQ Euro Car 

Parts, and will be responsible for overseeing 

the motor factor’s 135 LKQ Euro Car Parts 

branches across the region. Adam brings 

23 years of experience in the sector to the 

post, moving from his previous role as Sales 

Director at GSF Car Parts. 

Kevan Wooden, CEO at LKQ UK & Ireland, 

said: “Tony, Matt and Adam each bring 

invaluable perspectives and experiences 

from inside and outside the business to 

their new senior positions. They’ll each be 

key in shaping the strategy behind our goal 

to help customers succeed in an evolving 

marketplace. 

I would also personally like to thank 

departing COO Richard Morgan. He played 

a key role in the transformation of the 

business over the last five years, in particular 

for driving industry leading availability 

through world class logistics and supply 

chain planning - as well as championing 

support to Ukraine, where he and the team 

delivered 27 ambulances and numerous aid 

packages to the children of Ukraine. Richard 

will remain with us for a while on the UK&I 

board.” 

Daniel Chambers joins the Dayco team 

Highly experienced wholesale parts specialist, Daniel Chambers, has joined Dayco to 

further strengthen its UK aftermarket team, as it continues to increase sales of its 

established HT (white) timing belt kits and grow its range of belt in oil (BIO) solutions. 

Daniel brings with him considerable 

aftermarket experience, being 

trained as both a technician who 

worked ‘at the coal face’ and a parts 

specialist with prominent national wholesale 

chains. After three years with the Motorist 

Centre in Rugby and another year with 

Midland Vehicle Components, Daniel began 

a 14-year career with GSF, which saw him 

develop from his initial role as a parts 

sales advisor, to become assistant branch 

manager and then branch manager in Milton 

Keynes, then branch manager in Daventry 

and finally, the general manager of the 

Northampton regional distribution centre. 

“Having worked in the wholesale parts 

business for such a long time, I obviously 

have a broad view of the market and the 

many brands that supply parts into the 

industry,” said Daniel, “and was therefore 

naturally very aware of Dayco and its original 

equipment heritage. So, as I had planned 

to change career direction and work with 

a supplier, the prospect of being part 

of the Dayco team was not only a great 

opportunity, but also an easy decision to 

make.” 

“Daniel joined Dayco at a particularly busy 

time for us, as the team was preparing for 

the country’s largest trade show, the UK 

Garage & Bodyshop Event in Birmingham 

last month,” said Dayco’s National Sales 

Manager, Steve Carolan. “However, the 

timing was also ideal as we had a busy stand 

where we held several technical training 

sessions to inform and educate technicians 

and independent workshop owners, which 

was also a great opportunity for Daniel to 

speak with both our customer’s customers, 

and the factors and distributors that also 

visited the show. 

“As interest in BIO technology among 

workshops is growing significantly and our 

sales are rising exponentially, adding another 

knowledgeable professional to our team 

was an important priority, and with Daniel 

we have a personality that fits that brief 

superbly and so look forward to a long and 

successful period together.” 

34 THE GARAGE 

34 people.indd 1 29/08/2024 09:57

Your weekly automotive 

news roundup from . . . 

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Garage Pulse Fillers V2.indd 1 29/08/2024 09:51

Professional 

TOW SHOW 2024 

Telford International Centre 

WEDNESDAY 18 AND THURSDAY 19 SEPTEMBER 

THE LARGEST 

TRADE SHOW 

IN THE UK 

DEDICATED TO THE 

VEHICLE RECOVERY 

AND ROADSIDE 

ASSISTANCE 

INDUSTRY 

• All Industry Display 

Outside Demos 

• Vintage Recovery 

Vehicle Display 

• FREE Entry and 

FREE Parking 

• Business Seminar 

Programme 

For latest information about the show visit 

www.recoverytowshow.co.uk 

Call Nick Phipps on 01959 543562 

or email nick.phipps@kelsey.co.uk 

PROFESSIONAL RECOVERY MAGAZINE 19 

019 Tow Show ad Issue 398.indd 19 23/07/2024 14:01 

02 Tow Show Advert.indd 1 29/07/2024 16:21

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