Car Maintenance

Prospective mechanics train for EV future with hybrid classes

Behind Bob stands a remarkable hybrid car battery. Its size is approximately 12 times that of a regular car battery, making it extremely heavy. On top of it rests a prominent "danger high voltage" sign, emphasizing the significance of safety. As Bob explains, "The biggest part about this class is learning the safety procedures, as this high voltage is extremely dangerous. So, learning the safety procedures, knowing what personal protective equipment (PPE) to wear, and understanding how to disable the system to ensure safe working conditions..."

UTI's Electric Hybrid Class Curriculum

UTI's electric hybrid class curriculum holds a unique position. It is one of the first from a private for-profit trade school in Texas and is relatively new. Instructors like Bob have flown to the UTI campus in Long Beach, California, for instruction. Just like many trade programs, the curriculum is informed by industry partners. This approach keeps the knowledge up to date with what future employers seek in potential hires. Tess Dubois-Carey is the president of UTI in Sacramento, California, where the program was first launched in 2023. She emphasizes, "That's why we have the partnerships we do and employers offering things like our tuition reimbursement incentive plan and similar initiatives to attract our graduates to work for them."

Hybrid and EV Learning at Northeast Texas Community College

In Mount Pleasant, Northeast Texas Community College is making significant strides. Just over an hour west of Texarkana and a couple of hours east of Dallas, this community college with a population of over 16,000 has become the first in the nation to offer the EV certificate program. Zachary Strawbridge, an instructor in the Carroll Shelby Automotive Program on campus, states, "We always strive to be on the cutting edge of what the industry demands from entry-level mechanics. As the hybrid and EV market share continues to grow, we have been introducing more and more of it to ensure our technicians are well-prepared to succeed in the industry." To write the curriculum, the program partnered with LegacyEV, a company specializing in electric vehicle components and education from Arizona.

Overcoming Infrastructure Challenges

It is no secret that a major issue hindering the electric vehicle market in Texas is the infrastructure, particularly the lack of charging stations. However, with an EV charging station factory opening its doors in Fort Worth, the possibility of seeing more EVs and hybrids on the roads outside of big cities becomes more plausible. Strawbridge remarks, "Within the next 5 to 10 years, we should start to notice a significant increase in local areas. This is an important step towards the wider adoption of electric vehicles and hybrids."

Insights into the Thriving ASEAN Automotive Aftermarket Growth

The ASEAN automotive aftermarket stands as a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector, holding significant potential for growth and innovation. With a projected CAGR of 8.5% and an estimated revenue of USD 24.56 billion in 2023, it is set to surpass USD 55.53 billion by 2033. This remarkable growth is driven by various factors such as expanding vehicle ownership, rising disposable incomes, and the increasing demand for vehicle maintenance and repair services.

Unlock the Potential of the ASEAN Automotive Aftermarket

Category Type: Parts

The ASEAN automotive aftermarket offers a diverse range of replacement parts that play a crucial role in keeping vehicles on the road. From engine components to exterior accessories, these parts ensure the smooth functioning and longevity of vehicles. For instance, high-quality spark plugs from companies like NGK Spark Plug and Denso Corporation enhance engine performance and fuel efficiency. The availability of a wide variety of parts allows consumers to choose according to their specific needs and budgets.

Moreover, the market for parts is constantly evolving with technological advancements. Connected car systems and predictive analytics are transforming the way aftermarket parts are designed and used. This enables manufacturers to develop parts that are more compatible with modern vehicle technologies, providing enhanced functionality and reliability.

By Vehicle Type: Passenger Car

Passenger cars dominate the ASEAN automotive aftermarket, accounting for a significant share of the market. The increasing number of passenger vehicles on the roads in ASEAN countries leads to a higher demand for aftermarket products and services. As these cars age, the need for frequent repairs and maintenance becomes evident, driving the growth of the aftermarket.

For example, in Malaysia, where the automotive industry is thriving, the demand for passenger car aftermarket parts is on the rise. Consumers are willing to invest in quality parts to ensure the safety and performance of their vehicles. This trend is also observed in other ASEAN countries like Indonesia and the Philippines.

By Country: Malaysia

Malaysia is one of the key markets in the ASEAN automotive aftermarket. The country's growing economy, rapid urbanization, and increasing middle-class population have contributed to the expansion of the aftermarket. With a large number of vehicles on the roads, there is a high demand for aftermarket products and services.

Malaysian aftermarket players are capitalizing on this opportunity by offering a wide range of products and services. They are also focusing on improving customer reach and service delivery through digital platforms. This allows them to meet the demands of tech-savvy consumers and stay competitive in the market.

Key Drivers: Growing Vehicle Parc

The rising number of vehicles in ASEAN countries is a major driver of the automotive aftermarket. As more people own cars, the need for aftermarket products and services increases. This includes not only replacement parts but also repair and maintenance services.

For instance, in Thailand, where the vehicle parc is growing steadily, aftermarket companies are seeing a significant increase in business. They are constantly innovating to meet the changing needs of consumers and provide them with the best solutions.

Key Drivers: Aging Vehicle Fleet

The aging vehicle fleet in ASEAN countries presents another opportunity for the aftermarket. Older vehicles require frequent repairs and maintenance to keep them running smoothly. This creates a demand for aftermarket services such as engine repairs, brake replacements, and electrical system repairs.

Companies like Bosch GmbH and HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA are well-positioned to cater to this demand with their extensive range of aftermarket products and services. They offer reliable and high-quality solutions that help extend the life of aging vehicles.

Key Drivers: Economic Growth and Urbanization

Economic growth and urbanization in ASEAN countries have led to an increase in vehicle ownership and spending on aftermarket solutions. As people's incomes rise and urban areas expand, more people are able to afford cars and invest in aftermarket products and services.

In Singapore, for example, where the economy is highly developed and urbanization is advanced, the automotive aftermarket is booming. Consumers are willing to spend on premium aftermarket products to enhance the performance and appearance of their vehicles.

Key Drivers: Technological Advancements

Technological advancements are transforming the ASEAN automotive aftermarket, offering enhanced efficiency and customer satisfaction. Connected car technologies and predictive maintenance are enabling aftermarket companies to provide more proactive and personalized services.

For instance, Continental AG's acquisition of CRP Industries' automotive aftermarket business has allowed them to enhance their distribution channel and sales funnel in the ASEAN region. This enables them to offer advanced connected car technologies and predictive maintenance solutions to their customers.

Key Drivers: E-Commerce Expansion

The expansion of e-commerce platforms is revolutionizing the distribution and accessibility of aftermarket parts and services in ASEAN. Online platforms are making it easier for consumers to purchase aftermarket products from the comfort of their homes and at competitive prices.

Companies like Mahle GmbH and Michelin are leveraging e-commerce platforms to reach a wider customer base and improve customer service. They offer online catalogs, technical support, and easy ordering processes, making it convenient for consumers to find and purchase the right aftermarket products.

Key Drivers: Government Policies

Favorable government policies and incentives for local manufacturing are contributing to a robust aftermarket ecosystem in ASEAN. These policies encourage local companies to invest in manufacturing and innovation, leading to the development of high-quality aftermarket products.

For example, in Vietnam, the government has implemented policies to support the automotive industry and promote local manufacturing. This has led to the growth of local aftermarket companies that are now competing globally.

Key Takeaways: Replacement Parts and Repair Services

Replacement parts and repair services account for a substantial share of the ASEAN automotive aftermarket. As the vehicle fleet ages and consumers become more conscious of vehicle maintenance, the demand for these services is increasing.

Aftermarket companies are focusing on providing high-quality replacement parts and efficient repair services to meet the growing demand. They are also investing in research and development to develop innovative solutions that can improve vehicle performance and reduce maintenance costs.

Key Takeaways: Technological Advancements

Technological advancements, such as connected car systems and predictive analytics, are transforming traditional aftermarket practices. These technologies are enabling aftermarket companies to offer more proactive and personalized services to their customers.

For example, predictive maintenance systems can detect potential problems in vehicles before they occur, allowing aftermarket companies to provide timely repairs and prevent costly breakdowns. Connected car technologies also enable aftermarket companies to offer remote diagnostics and software updates, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Key Takeaways: E-commerce Platforms

E-commerce platforms are emerging as a vital distribution channel in the ASEAN automotive aftermarket. These platforms offer enhanced market accessibility and customer convenience, allowing consumers to purchase aftermarket products with ease.

Online marketplaces like Alibaba and Amazon are playing a significant role in connecting aftermarket suppliers and consumers in ASEAN. They provide a wide range of products and competitive prices, making it easier for consumers to find what they need.

Key Takeaways: Collaboration between Regional Players and International Brands

Collaboration between regional players and international brands is fostering innovation and competitiveness in the ASEAN automotive aftermarket. This allows local companies to learn from international best practices and leverage their global networks.

For example, Aisin Seiki Co. Ltd. is collaborating with international brands to strengthen its AI infrastructure in the ASEAN region. This collaboration is enabling them to develop advanced aftermarket solutions that can meet the evolving needs of customers.

Competition Scenario

The competition in the ASEAN automotive aftermarket is intense, with key players focusing on producing services and products equivalent to OEM producers. Limiting prices and options of different quality, sizes, and materials is also a part of the competitive strategy.

Small-scale vendors and fleet operators are also collaborating to increase their market share. This is leading to increased competition and innovation in the market, benefiting consumers with better products and services.

Market Developments

Aisin Seiki Co. Ltd. announced the setting up of the Kyushu Development Center Hakata Laboratory for artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in Fukuoka City, Japan. This move is aimed at strengthening their AI infrastructure and developing advanced aftermarket solutions.

Continental AG's acquisition of CRP Industries' automotive aftermarket business has also had a significant impact on the market. It has enhanced their distribution channel and sales funnel in the ASEAN region, enabling them to offer a wider range of products and services.

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The Truck Service Trends in Q2: Top Maintained Components

Understanding truck trends is a task that demands time and patience. It's not merely about grasping the reasons behind service occurrences; rather, adopting a long-term perspective on truck service requirements enables one to perceive maintenance operations in a way that was previously unimaginable. This profound insight often serves as the catalyst for in-depth feature stories filled with the latest connected truck technologies. In this particular instance, it holds true with absolute sincerity.

Unlock the Secrets of Truck Service with Decisiv

Seasonal Impact on Truck Service Operations

Decisiv has been sharing exclusive truck service data with us for over a year, meticulously charting millions of truck service transactions across different seasons and equipment duty cycles. This provides us with a valuable window into the truck service realm. For instance, in the second quarter of 2024 data, air conditioning (AC) and heating systems witnessed the most significant quarter-over-quarter jump, with an astonishing 71.8% increase. This clearly reflects the fleet managers' proactive preparations for the summer months. Subsequently, tire, wheel, and hub activities also surged significantly, marking a 15.7% rise in wheel-related services during the quarter.The seasonal variations have a profound impact on truck service operations, influencing various components and systems. It showcases the importance of staying attuned to these seasonal trends to ensure the smooth running of truck services.

Persistent Trend of Automated Manual Transmission Service

Year-over-year, in the second quarter of 2024, there was a notable 53.8% increase in manual transmission services and a 16.8% rise in automatic transmissions. This trend indicates the continuous evolution and significance of transmission systems in the trucking industry. There is more on the horizon, suggesting that these trends will continue to shape the future of truck service.Nick Pittinger, the vice president of data services at Decisiv, noted that there was a recall in May related to gear shifter communication with the transmission. However, no significant activity related to this recall has been observed yet. They plan to revisit this when the Q3 data is available.

Truck Service Staples: Engine and Aftertreatment Systems

The power plant remains the dominant force in service activity, accounting for 19% of all operations. Exhaust systems follow closely at 11%, and these components consistently rank among the most serviced areas across different vehicle age brackets.Pittinger emphasized that among the 25 VMRS systems tracked by Decisiv, the power plant continues to have the largest impact not only in terms of service volume but also in terms of cost share. This highlights the criticality of the power plant and its associated systems in truck service.

The Role of Vehicle Maintenance Reporting Standards (VMRS)

The Vehicle Maintenance Reporting Standards (VMRS) plays a crucial role in making it possible to track truck service trends. Decisiv has developed automated VMRS encoding, which utilizes machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze individual service operations. It interprets the information captured during the creation of a repair order and assigns appropriate VMRS codes to completed operations.Pittinger stated that they have incorporated their VMRS Code Key 31 system and encoding model directly into their platform. This has significantly enhanced the VMRS encoding process, increasing its completion rate from around 10% to 15% coming from the dealers to an impressive 65% to 70% of the operations flowing through their platform.Watch the video to gain a deeper understanding of the truck service data, as well as the latest developments in automated manual transmission (AMT), cab and sheet metal, and power plant service.
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