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New Technology Poses New Challenges: Today’s Technicians Must Be on Their Best Game
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By Counterman
PRT announced the launch of 42 complete strut assemblies in the North American Aftermarket. They cover models like the BMW X3, Ford F-150, Chevy Tahoe and Jeep Compass, in addition to brand-new applications such as the Tesla Y 2023, RAM 1500 2023, Jeep Grand Cherokee 2023 and Toyota Tacoma 2023 among others, according to
link hidden, please login to view. “As an OE supplier, we are continually investing in research and development of new products to serve both OE and Aftermarket sectors, allowing us to provide the latest innovations to our customers in North America,” said Bruno Bello, director of global marketing at
link hidden, please login to view. For more information, call 1-770-238-1611, visit
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By Counterman
As we enter a new year, many of us are still busy reviewing what we’ve done during the previous 12 months. From closing the books on 2024, to analyzing profitability and leveraging missed opportunities to increase those profits in the coming months, this is a busy time of year behind the scenes of any automotive business. Looking back is certainly important for gaining perspective on where we’ve been, but the upcoming year has the potential to bring a wide array of changes for consumers and business owners alike.
Consumer buying trends are expected to continue shifting toward even more online purchasing as we navigate through 2025 and beyond. In the automotive aftermarket, we’ve already embraced the concept of providing an online shopping experience for our customers, but that experience is changing as consumers adopt new habits and more providers enter the marketplace. The increasing use of mobile devices (and the increasing variety of these devices) will continue to change the methods we use to connect with consumers. Not only are buyers using mobile devices for roughly 65% of their automotive e-commerce inquiries, they are accessing an increasing amount of entertainment and information content. The number of eyes on the traditional advertising mediums of broadcast television, local radio and print media have steadily declined, with more people turning to subscription services like streaming platforms and satellite radio. With fewer advertising opportunities, finding new ways to engage our customers on their preferred devices becomes ever more important in the digital marketplace.
Software also is increasingly important to the vehicle itself. Connected cars have become part of a virtual network in recent years, commonly known as the “internet of things.” With onboard hardware and software capable of sending and receiving data, and the ability to interface with other connected devices, the automobile has officially joined the ranks of “mobile devices.” More than 70% of new vehicles are “connected,” with tech companies like Microsoft, Apple and Google often partnering with the OEMs to offer in-car infotainment, communications and vehicle health/maintenance data through a wireless 5G network infrastructure. For better or worse, this also has led to the ability of OEMs to offer “subscription” services for many features found in their SDVs (software defined vehicles). A monthly charge for access to your heated seats or remote start might rub some vehicle buyers the wrong way, but the acceptance rate for on-demand features like these is increasing as more people begin to view their vehicle in the same way they have come to utilize their other connected devices.
The bi-directional transfer and analysis of vehicle data is one key to utilizing the AI technologies behind ADAS and autonomous vehicle capabilities. SAE International recognizes six varying levels of “self-driving” vehicle automation, from emergency braking and blind spot warning (Level 0) all the way to fully-autonomous control under all driving conditions (Level 5). AI has a critical role in these vehicles “learning” their environment and then responding to changes in their surroundings, all in real time. For these systems to work efficiently (and safely), data from cameras, RADAR and LIDAR sensors must be collected and transmitted, analyzed and used by the AI program to make “educated” decisions to mimic a human operator. Like EVs, autonomous vehicles require a level of networked infrastructure that still does not exist on the scale necessary for mass adoption.
Data, in its many forms, is the cornerstone to improved technology. No matter if it takes the form of daily reports we generate to track sales, inventory and other KPIs, or a series of over-the-air communications that help keep a connected vehicle in its lane, the network of information that surrounds us is critical to our success in 2025 and beyond.
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By Counterman
Clore Automotive introduced its new PRO-LOGIX Model PL6850, 12/24 Volt 120A Flashing Power
Supply and 120/60/40/10A Battery Charger. The company said the PL6850 is designed to provide stable power—on demand, up to 120 amps, to a vehicle electrical system to support module reprogramming, ADAS recalibration, electronic repairs and diagnostic tasks. It also provides full service 12/24V battery charging capability from 10 to 120 amps, to service everything from small vehicle batteries to Group 31 multi-battery packs, Clore said.
In power supply mode, the PRO-LOGIX PL6850 provides power to maintain vehicle electrical system
voltage at a preset level, increasing its output in response to system load increases to maintain a stable
power environment for successful reprogramming. It features a voltage output range of 13.1-14.9V (12V)
or 26.1-29.8V (24V), adjustable in 0.1V increments, allowing the operator to dial the output in exactly as
specified by the supplier of the vehicle under service. According to Clore, it features fast load responsiveness for ultra-quick recovery from system demand increases. It also delivers its massive power with minimal voltage ripple (<100mV), providing a clean flow of power to the vehicle without risk of programming interference.
link hidden, please login to view added that in charging mode, the PL6850 utilizes advanced microprocessor-controlled logic to optimally charge each battery or battery pack serviced. It features the ability to properly charge a wide variety of battery types, including Conventional, AGM, Spiral Wound, Start-Stop, Deep Cycle and Marine lead acid batteries, plus LiFEPO4 Lithium Batteries – enabling beneficial service of virtually any battery type installed in a vehicle. It adapts its charging approach based on the needs of each battery or battery pack it services, including activating a soft start mode on deeply discharged batteries and a battery repair mode on older/distressed batteries. It is also effective on totally dead (0.0V) batteries with its forced start mode, the company said. Clore explained the PL6850 features detachable and field-replaceable input cable and output leads. The #2 AWG output leads are 13’ long, enabling easy access to vehicle batteries/packs under any condition. The unit includes a handle for easy transport around a shop or in and out of a mobile service vehicle.
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By Counterman
Advance Auto Parts, Inc. announced it has appointed Shweta Bhatia as executive vice president and chief technology officer, effective immediately. According to the company, Bhatia brings more than 20 years of retail, technology and operational experience to
link hidden, please login to view. Most recently, she served as senior vice president of technology at Dollar General, where she led a multi-year, end-to-end technology transformation and modernization to enhance the company’s operational efficiency. “Shweta’s history of successfully executing transformational programs that focus on speed, efficiency and providing quality solutions to customers will greatly contribute to the execution of our three-year financial plan,” said Shane O’Kelly, president and chief executive officer. “We welcome Shweta to our leadership team that is passionate about carrying out our decisive actions which will set up Advance for future growth and value creation.”
Bhatia also served as vice president of technology at both Walmart International, where she led the company’s core retail technology portfolio, and Kohl’s Corporation, where she managed the strategy and implementation of solutions across multiple channels.
link hidden, please login to view said her passion for modern technology transformation began as an entrepreneur, creating the tech startup, Wisdom Info Tech, an award-winning technology firm. Bhatia received her MBA from Amity Business School and a bachelor’s degree at IT College, both located in India.
Sri Donthi, Advance’s current chief technology officer, will remain with the company for a period to assist in the transition. The company said it is grateful to Sri for his leadership and contributions over the last several years and wishes him well as he moves on to a new opportunity.
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By Advance Auto Parts
RALEIGH, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Advance Auto Parts, Inc. (NYSE: AAP), a leading automotive aftermarket parts provider in North America that serves both professional installers and do-it-yourself customers, today announced that it has appointed Shweta Bhatia as executive vice president and chief technology officer, effective immediately.
“Shweta’s history of successfully executing transformational programs that focus on speed, efficiency, and providing quality solutions to customers will greatly contribute to the execution of our three-year financial plan,” Shane O’Kelly, president and chief executive officer. “We welcome Shweta to our leadership team that is passionate about carrying out our decisive actions which will set up Advance for future growth and value creation.”
Ms. Bhatia brings more than 20 years of retail, technology, and operational experience to Advance. Most recently, Ms. Bhatia served as senior vice president of technology at Dollar General where she led a multi-year, end-to-end technology transformation and modernization to enhance the company’s operational efficiency. Ms. Bhatia also served as the vice president of technology at both Walmart International, where she led the company’s core retail technology portfolio, and Kohl’s Corporation, where she managed the strategy and implementation of solutions across multiple channels. Her passion for modern technology transformation began as an entrepreneur, creating the tech startup, Wisdom Info Tech, an award-winning technology firm.
Ms. Bhatia received her MBA at the Amity Business School and a bachelor's degree at IT College, both located in India.
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