Magneti Marelli Parts and Services, the division of Marelli dedicated to the distribution of spare parts, automotive components and technical information to the independent aftermarket, has expanded its engine timing system range with new Timing Chain Kit references, Super-Kits, VVT phasers and OCV valves for European and Asian vehicles. The expanded range covers manufacturers including Audi, BMW, Fiat, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi and Toyota, the company said. The kits are intended for chain-dr...

Friction One, a US-based manufacturer of automotive braking products, has acquired BPI's former research, development and testing laboratory in McHenry, Illinois, adding seven brake dynamometers to support its Raybestos business. The purchase follows Friction One’s recent acquisition of the Raybestos brand and formulations, bringing the brand’s engineering and validation equipment under the company’s control. The deal includes two LINK Model 3900 dynamometers, as well as LINK Model...

Phinia, the spinoff company of the Fuel Systems and Aftermarket segments of Michigan-based powertrain technologies supplier BorgWarner, has appointed Daniel Griffin as global vice president, Aftermarket, effective July 6. Griffin will report to Brady Ericson, Phinia's president and CEO, and will be based in Auburn Hills, Michigan. He succeeds Neil Fryer, who will retire effective Sept. 30, after a long-planned transition.  In the role, Griffin will be responsible for the operatio...

US-based EAS Tire & Auto, operating under the Straightaway Tire & Auto brand, has expanded to 26 locations by acquiring Elite Auto Service in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Elite Auto Service operates from a shop on East Platte Avenue and has served drivers across the Pikes Peak region, including the Fort Carson and Peterson AFB communities. The business was owned by Brian Ferriter. EAS Tire & Auto said the acquisition adds to its presence across Colorado. Elite Auto Service will ...

Bosch has announced that its communications chief, Christof Ehrhart, will leave the company on Dec. 31, 2026, at his own request to pursue outside commitments and projects.  Ehrhart has led Bosch’s global internal and external communications since 2019. His remit also includes governmental affairs, relations with industry associations and stakeholder groups, and strategic brand management. Bosch said Ehrhart’s successor will be announced at a later date. “The company extends ...

United Recyclers Group (URG), a network of more than 750 professional auto recyclers across North America, has announced the launch of Auto Part Search. It is an online marketplace connecting buyers with used parts inventory from more than 750 auto recyclers. The platform allows buyers to create accounts at no cost, with no sign-up fees or subscription required. Auto Part Search combines verified inventory, fitment information and purchasing on one e-commerce site. Buyers can search...

Bosch is adding to its portfolio of diesel components for workshops by adding the DCP 800 test bench for common-rail high-pressure pumps, with testing capability at pressures of up to 2,700 bar. The test bench will make its first live appearance at the Automechanika Frankfurt 2026 from Sept. 8 to 12. The DCP 800, short for Diagnostic Common-Rail Pump, is designed for diesel-service workshops working on passenger cars, commercial vehicles and off-road applications. The system expands Bosc...

BP has agreed to sell its Austrian mobility, convenience and electric vehicle charging businesses, including 250 BP-branded retail sites, to Volenergy AG, BP said. The deal covers about 115 company-owned and franchise-operated sites, EV charging infrastructure and the associated fleet business. Other sites included in the transaction operate under models such as dealer-owned, dealer-operated and unstaffed company-owned locations. The retail network in Austria will continue t...

BM Catalysts, a UK-based producer of aftermarket emissions products, will be present at Automechanika Frankfurt 2026 from Sept. 8 to Sept. 12 to showcase an emissions-control portfolio covering over 41 million vehicles in the European car parc. A main focus of the company's showcase will be diesel particulate filters (DPFs), which BM Catalysts said are gaining importance in the European aftermarket. Since particulate number (PN) emissions testing requirements were introduced across the c...

Bosch has announced that it will add an AI-based assistant to its ESI[tronic] diagnostic software with the 2026/4 software update at the end of 2026. The feature, aimed at helping workshops identify vehicle faults and repair solutions faster, will be previewed at the Automechanika trade fair in Frankfurt, Germany, in September. The update will be available for the ESI[tronic] Advanced and Master software packages under the existing software license at no additional cost. Bosch said the a...

Aptera Motors Corp., a company developing an electric two-seat three-wheeler solar electric vehicle, said it has partnered with RepairPal to give its vehicle owners access to more than 4,300 certified auto repair locations across the US. RepairPal connects consumers with certified mechanics and dealer locations nationwide, and its network is used by over 100 companies, including USAA and CarMax. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of Yelp Inc. The agreement is intended to provide service sup...

Think Car, a firm involved in car and truck diagnostic tools, has rolled out a campaign promoting diesel particulate filter maintenance. The company is outlining its DPF Cleaner product, intended to help technicians restore blocked diesel particulate filters and support cleaner-running vehicles as diesel models face rising emissions-related maintenance requirements.  Alongside the cleaning fluid, Think Car is also offering its DPF Cleaning Gun with a starter pack including the ...

Valvoline Global Operations expanded its factory-fill lubricant partnership with Horse Powertrain and signed a long-term aftersales agreement with Geely Auto Group. The agreements make Valvoline Global Geely’s designated lubricant technology partner and extend its fluids from vehicle assembly into aftermarket service for Geely vehicles, including other owned and operated brands under its parent company. Horse Powertrain, a joint venture between Geely, Renault and Aramco, manufactures powert...

Generational has teamed up with Maverick Diagnostics to offer its electric vehicle (EV) battery health tests to around 6,000 workshops across the United Kingdom. These workshops are served by Maverick. The UK-based companies said on July 14 that Generational will distribute testing kits, fulfill workshop orders, and provide the software platform for battery health checks, state-of-health reports, and customer-facing certificates. Maverick Diagnostics will market the technology and provide edu...

Topdon, a US-based provider of tools and solutions for professional technicians and do-it-yourself (DIY) enthusiasts, has moved its US headquarters to a 32,000-square-foot facility in Fairfield, New Jersey, that is approximately 146% larger than its previous location. The company, which provides diagnostic tools and technology solutions, said the relocation is intended to support sustained growth and an expanded product lineup. The new site adds office suites, training conference rooms, and m...

Friction One, a US-based manufacturer of automotive braking products, has acquired the Raybestos brand through First Brands Group's Chapter 11 bankruptcy process, with initial Raybestos-branded friction, drums and rotors expected to reach distribution in the fourth quarter of 2026. The deal includes the Raybestos brand and assets such as product formulations, engineering specifications, application data, catalog resources, marketing assets and related technical materials, Friction One said. ...

TraXtion, a provider of AI-powered vehicle inspection and tire intelligence technology, has launched TireSpec, an AI-powered website and smartphone tool that provides shoppers with replacement tire quotes from a tire photo, without extra hardware or an app. The Texas-based company said TireSpec can be embedded in dealership, tire retailer and automotive repair facility websites. Consumers tap a button, photograph a tire with a smartphone and receive tire recommendations and pricing in seconds...

Tekmetric, a provider of automotive repair shop management solutions in the US, has launched the Tekmetric Shop Index, a free benchmarking tool that lets auto repair shops compare performance with data from more than 15,000 shops on its platform. Tekmetric offers a cloud-based auto repair platform that includes shop management, payments, marketing, technology integrations and real-time data for auto repair shops nationwide. The Houston-based company said the tool is available withou...

Automechanika Frankfurt has partnered with the Association of International Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (VDIK) for a new Road to Automechanika initiative ahead of its Sept. 8–12 trade fair. The partnership with VDIK is intended to promote discussion on vehicle data, aftermarket business models, fleet services, accident repair management and the shift in mobility. The event is expected to draw manufacturers, suppliers, workshops, retailers and service providers to Frankfurt, Germany. A ne...

On July 4, Continental announced that it had agreed to sell its ContiTech industrial business to an affiliate of Lone Star Funds for €4 billion, completing a restructuring that will leave the German company a pure-play tire manufacturer. The deal includes performance-based payments of up to €250 million in subsequent years and remains subject to regulatory approval. Lone Star Funds will acquire all of ContiTech's business operations worldwide. Continental expects cash proceeds of about...

Litens Aftermarket, a Canada-based manufacturer of engineered power transmission systems and components, has added 29 new stock-keeping units (SKUs) to its aftermarket belt drive lineup, covering more than 26.6 million vehicles in operation (VIO). The release includes three tensioners with its Easy Button latch and Technician Assist Pin (TAP) technology, covering 3,609,409 VIO. Litens said the features are intended to simplify installation and service for technicians. The company also adde...

Aftermarket supplier WAI Global said it will expand its Memphis distribution center by 75,000 square feet and add warehouse technology and equipment upgrades to improve inventory management and order fulfillment. The project includes a cloud-enabled warehouse management system intended to give real-time visibility into inventory and warehouse operations. The system will also optimize receiving, put-away, replenishment, picking and shipping processes, the company said. “This investment en...

Collision Partners, a US-based collision repair platform, has announced its acquisition of K&M Collision, an OEM-certified collision repair operator based in North Carolina, US. According to the release, K&M was founded in 1991 by Kevin and Meredith Bradshaw and grew from a small family business into an OEM-certified collision repair operator. The company’s certifications include Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, BMW, Jaguar Land Rover, Lucid, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, and it works with...

Foxwell has launched the NT919 BT automotive scan tool with full-system diagnostics, more than 3,000 Bidirectional Active Tests and over 34 Maintenance Services. The company said that the scanner is aimed at independent repair shops, mobile technicians, fleet maintenance teams and advanced DIY users. The device also includes ECU Coding and support for controller area network with flexible data rate (CAN-FD) and DoIP communication protocols. The NT919 BT allows users to command supported ...

UK distributor Roadlink has announced that it is an official UK distributor for Weweler leaf springs, suspension components and Integra landing legs for the UK commercial vehicle aftermarket. VDL Weweler-Colaert is a supplier of suspension parts and chassis components for trucks, trailers and buses. Roadlink is supplying Weweler products designed for specific vehicle applications and operating conditions, including leaf springs and related suspension parts made to original equipment...

First Line Ltd. has expanded its electric and hybrid cooling range with auxiliary water pumps for the Tesla Model 3, Jaguar I-Pace and plug-in hybrid Range Rover models. The company said the additions are aimed at helping independent workshops service a UK vehicle parc that is moving further toward electrification. First Line said electric and hybrid vehicles use more complex coolant systems than conventional vehicles, including multiple coolant circuits, electric water pumps and temperature ...

Smart hardware brand AoToRoBo has launched in the US with two vehicle-upgrade products, Civo and Aero. Civo is an AI-powered driving companion, while Aero is a plug-and-play smart infotainment system with integrated air purification. The products are aimed at drivers of older vehicles that lack modern connected features, offering AI interaction, connectivity, entertainment, navigation and cabin air-quality functions without replacing the vehicle. "Cars are more than transportation — th...

Poland's energy group Orlen has opened its first Orlen Charge multibay fast-charging hub in Germany, a 16-charger site on the A23 motorway in Elmshorn near Hamburg. The hub, located near Orlen Deutschland's headquarters, has 16 covered charging bays, each rated at 400 kilowatts, matching the capacity of Orlen Charge hubs in Poland. Rooftop photovoltaic panels support the site's energy supply from renewable sources. The facility also includes toilets, seating areas, vacuum cleaners and...

On June 11, US-based private equity firm River Associates Investments acquired aftermarket firm Horsepower Automotive Group. The company owns a range of aftermarket automotive brands serving enthusiast vehicle platforms, including Ford, Ram, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, Jeep, Chevrolet, and Toyota trucks, vans, and sport utility vehicles. Horsepower designs, manufactures, and distributes performance parts and accessories used in overland and off-road adventure vehicles. The company's products encomp...

Valvoline has announced the European launch of its lubricant Restore & Protect, saying the motor oil uses technology designed to remove deposits, restore engine performance and protect against future buildup. The company claims the motor oil removes up to 99% of engine-killing deposits and 78% of sludge. The lubricant, previously introduced in other global markets, has been adapted for European gasoline and diesel engines. The formulation has been validated in testing, meets key perf...

Mann+Hummel has announced that Christoph Sagemüller will join the filtration company as chief marketing officer and also become an executive leadership committee member on Aug. 17, 2026. Sagemüller will be responsible for the company's global brand architecture and brand portfolio, as well as customer experience across all touchpoints, with a focus on digital customer experience. The company said the appointment supports its customer-centric transformation and global brand positioning. S...

Repairify and Opus IVS have finalized their previously announced deal to merge their automotive diagnostics divisions into a cohesive operating framework, according to the companies. The deal follows a January announcement in which the companies outlined plans to combine diagnostics capabilities to expand service offerings, add technology capabilities and support customers in the automotive repair and collision industries. The combined organization brings together Repairify's remote diagno...

Multibrand in-vehicle data provider Caruso said it has partnered with Polestar to offer business customers real-time in-vehicle telematics data from Polestar vehicles through the Caruso marketplace. Fleet operators, mobility service providers and enterprise partners can request standardized vehicle data through Caruso's platform using a secure API integration, the company said. Polestar is a Swedish electric performance car brand. The data is grouped into six functional areas: location and...

Indian automaker Tata Motors and Castrol India have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to jointly launch a pilot program for a used oil circularity ecosystem. The collaboration aims to establish a model for the collection, channelization and recycling of used engine oil. The companies will create a traceable system to collect, store and channelize used engine oil from Tata Motors' authorized service network in the state of Karnataka in India. The companies state that the program ...

Schaeffler Vehicle Lifetime Solutions has announced that it will present a unified aftermarket brand and integrated repair portfolio at Automechanika Frankfurt on Sept. 8–12. The company said it will demonstrate how it is combining products, services and technologies into a single ecosystem for workshops and distributors.  Schaeffler said it is consolidating its aftermarket offering under one global brand to reduce customer interfaces and provide a more consistent experience across its...

Ireland-based automotive aftermarket player, Serfac, has added Pierburg engine management and emissions control parts to its aftermarket range, initially offering vacuum pumps, exhaust gas recirculation (EGRs), water pumps and throttle bodies. Pierburg, part of the Rheinmetall Group, is a European original equipment manufacturer with more than a century in automotive engineering. Serfac said the Pierburg aftermarket program brings original equipment (OE) engineering, manufacturing standa...

NBC Bearings, a brand of India-based National Engineering Industries Ltd., has introduced an automotive aftermarket range for the Indian market covering wiper blades, brake pads, belts, steering rods and critical vehicle components. The company said the expansion takes it into multiple aftermarket categories for two- and three-wheelers and passenger cars, building on its bearings and allied engineering products and services businesses. It described the launch as part of a growth and diversifi...

Hella UK announced that it debuted the Hella Gutmann CSC-Tool PRO ADAS calibration system at the 2026 UK Garage & Bodyshop Event, citing strong interest from independent garages. The system was the company's main launch at the event and is designed to automate many setup and calibration processes for advanced driver assistance systems. Hella said the tool can help workshops complete calibrations more quickly and accurately. The company said interest in ADAS calibration and advance...

Continental Battery Systems has outlined its battery recycling and recovery program, stating that, under the program, the company collects used batteries when delivering new ones, with lead-acid battery material recovery rates of up to 99%. The company said the exchange-based model is intended to keep used batteries out of landfills and in recovery channels. Collected batteries are tested for reuse, reconditioned or moved into recycling, where materials can be recovered for new batteries and ...

Plews & Edelmann, a US-based manufacturer of power steering hoses, repair kits, turbocharger oil lines and automotive fittings, has introduced Edelmann Elite Remote Reservoirs, a replacement power steering reservoir line covering select late-model Acura, Honda, Infiniti, Lexus, Subaru and Toyota vehicles totaling 9.3 million vehicles in operation (VIO). The company said the new line includes part numbers 5500RR to 5511RR. The reservoirs are intended to replace remote power steering r...

Hella Aftermarket, Forvia Hella's independent spare part and workshop business, has launched two light bar series delivering up to 11,000 lumens for commercial vehicles and off-road applications. The new DynaRay and Black Magic Tough Pro Lightbars are intended to expand the company's offering for off-road users and professional fleets. Output reaches up to 11,000 lumens, depending on the version, the company said. An integrated high-boost mode raises light output at the touch of a button a...

MAHLE has outlined several of its thermal and cooling technologies for electric vehicles for the Spanish market against the backdrop of Spain's annual summer traffic operation, which it believes would generate above 100 million long-distance journeys. MAHLE said its bionic battery cooling plate increases cooling capacity by approximately 10% and reduces pressure loss by up to 20%. The plate, inspired by coral formations, uses flow channels designed to guide coolant more efficiently and h...

Valeo is launching its Tech Academy training program in Italy, aiming to train workshops on electric vehicles and advanced driver assistance systems. The program is already available in France, Germany, Poland, Spain and the UK. It combines digital courses with face-to-face sessions and covers automotive systems and brands beyond Valeo products. The company has observed that Italy's battery-electric vehicle year-to-date registrations have more than doubled from the same period last year,...

Phinia, the spinoff company of Michigan, US-based powertrain technologies supplier BorgWarner's fuel systems and aftermarket segments, has agreed to acquire 100% of the equity interests of Stoba Group, a specialist in high-precision components and customized manufacturing solutions, the company said. The proposed transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to customary regulatory approvals and closing conditions. Phinia did not disclose financial terms in the ...

BM Catalysts, a UK-based producer of aftermarket emissions products, has added 25 part references covering 287 fitments across the European car parc, expanding its aftermarket emissions-products range. The company said the release extends coverage by about 7.9 million vehicles in Europe, broadening service opportunities for distributors and workshops across multiple vehicle platforms. The additions are aimed at meeting aftermarket demand as emissions legislation changes and new vehicle t...

Magneti Marelli Parts and Services has announced plans to present its aftermarket parts, services and workshop offerings at Automechanika Frankfurt 2026 on Sept. 8–12. Spare parts, which the company described as its core business, will be displayed in an experiential tunnel at the center of the booth. The portfolio will be grouped by category, including mechanical components, consumables, electronics and bodywork products. The stand will also include installations and interactive display...

Forvia Hella has announced that its brands Hella and Hella Gutmann will showcase their products and services at Automechanika Frankfurt 2026 to be held on Sept. 8–12, in Frankfurt. The showcase aims to combine Forvia Hella's original equipment (OE) technology and Hella Gutmann's workshop solutions for independent workshops and wholesalers. The companies said the booth will show how diagnostics, technical data, training, spare parts and technical support can be integrated to speed repair and...

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has lodged its submission to the Treasury’s consultation on improving and expanding Australia’s Right to Repair laws, calling for reforms that ensure the Motor Vehicle Information Sharing Scheme (MVIS) continues to deliver consumer choice, fair competition and repair access as vehicle technology evolves. The association observed that while Australia’s Right to Repair law has been a significant reform, the review presents an import...

Pirelli has strengthened its presence in connected mobility by partnering with Italian mobility technology startup RIDEsense and acquiring a 24.99% stake in the company, with an option to eventually take full ownership. Under the agreement, Pirelli gains access to RIDEsense’s virtual sensor technology, which uses advanced algorithms to generate vehicle and tire performance data from existing onboard sensors. The technology will be integrated into Pirelli’s Cyber Tyre ecosystem, the comp...

Original Birth, an Italy-based manufacturer of rubber and hard rubber components, has expanded its TecCom operations into the UK and Ireland via PACT to streamline order processing and customer connectivity. PACT is the exclusive distributor of TecCom and eparts in the UK and Ireland. Original Birth said the project followed a review of its systems and a need for greater standardization. The work also prompted a review of internal workflows and closer collaboration among accounting,...

NTN Europe has expanded Amélie Paviet's role, appointing her Logistics & Marketing director and deputy director within its Automotive Aftermarket division. Paviet, who leads the EMEA Marketing Department, will add Logistics to her remit and serve as deputy to Christophe Idelon. The company said the move is part of efforts to accelerate digital transformation and optimize its value chain. NTN Europe said combining Marketing and Logistics under one leader is intended to improve the custome...

Continental Tire introduced the TerrainContact A/T2, an all-season, all-terrain tire for crossovers, sport utility vehicles and light trucks. The company said the tire uses Continental's TractionPlus Technology and is designed to balance off-road capability with everyday road use, with a more aggressive design than its predecessor. The tire offers improved wet braking and enhanced snow performance, according to the company. It carries the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) certification, i...

Motorcar Parts of America (MPA), a US-based remanufacturer, manufacturer and distributor of automotive aftermarket parts, has acquired the intellectual and digital property associated with the Centric Parts brake brands from First Brands Group through its Chapter 11 bankruptcy process. Centric Parts' Brake business had estimated supplier-level gross sales of up to $400 million, according to the press release, citing industry reports. The acquired assets include brands such as Centric ...

UK-based online car service platform, BookMyGarage, has launched an Intelligent Website Assistant, its first AI service adviser for garages, offering three versions for websites to handle questions and bookings. The company said the booking-focused digital assistant is designed for garages with their own websites and uses each garage's live pricing, availability, lead times and bespoke FAQs. It guides customers from initial queries to completed booking confirmations, rather than operating as ...

Pirelli's newly elected board has appointed Marco Tronchetti Provera as executive chairman and Giovanni Tronchetti Provera as vice chairman, while unanimously confirming Andrea Casaluci as CEO. The appointments were made at the board's first meeting following its election on June 25. The board also acknowledged Marco Tronchetti Provera's declaration that he controls Pirelli through a group of holding companies, including MTP&C and Camfin, after a shareholder vote that gave his slate a maj...

US-based Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance Inc. has announced that Jim Holik will now serve as director of Technology Marketing. In this position, Holik will lead initiatives centered on advancing the Alliance’s technology-driven marketing strategy with a focus on strengthening and enhancing Alliance digital platforms, supporting business-to-customer and business-to-business e-commerce solutions, driving engagement, and prioritizing SEO, GEO and agentic search initiatives. The Aftermarket Aut...

Robert Bosch has announced a major leadership transition, with CEO and chairman of the board of management Stefan Hartung set to step down effective June 30. Hartung is leaving the company at his own request and in agreement with the shareholders, after more than a decade on Bosch’s board and over four years as chief executive. Effective July 1, Hartung will be succeeded by Christian Fischer, currently the deputy chairman of the board and a key architect of Bosch’s recent strategic initia...

Apec, Select Automotive, First Line and other automotive aftermarket suppliers have announced 275 new part references across braking, steering, suspension, batteries, emissions and other categories. Apec introduced 49 braking products. Its Apec Red additions include a rear brake pad set for the 2023 and newer BMW iX2 and front brake calipers for the 2012–2015 Honda CR-V and 2020 and newer Vauxhall Mokka-e, while Apec Black added a front brake disc for the 2020 and newer Land Rover Defender....

Netradyne has partnered with Australia's Geosecure to offer Driver•i platform that analyzes 100% of drive time for fleet-safety risks. The partnership pairs Netradyne's AI-based edge technology with Geosecure's Australian customer relationships and local fleet-technology experience. Geosecure will help deploy Netradyne's products across fleets in sectors including transport and logistics, construction and mining, utilities and infrastructure, government, and healthcare. Driver•i alerts...

UK-based automotive glass repair and replacement company Auto Windscreens said that its advanced driver assistance system calibrations tied to windscreen replacement work rose 30% over the last 12 months. The company said the increase partly reflected a 7% rise in windscreen repairs and replacements across its business. More than 40% of its front windscreen replacement jobs now include an ADAS calibration, it said. In a statement, Claire Church, director of Service Delivery at Auto Wi...

UVeye, a company in AI-driven vehicle inspection technology, has announced that automotive retailers using UVeye's inspection systems will be able to access Carfax service and recall data inside the same workflow used to assess vehicles entering the service lane, under a new integration announced by the companies. The connection brings together UVeye's automated drive-through inspection platform and Carfax vehicle history data, giving dealership service teams access to maintenance record...

Topdon, a US-based provider of tools and solutions for professional technicians and do-it-yourself (DIY) enthusiasts, announced that it has added support for the National Automotive Service Task Force's (NASTF) Secure Data Release Model, a voluntary program intended to limit access to sensitive vehicle-security operations. The company said the move comes as vehicle theft methods increasingly involve diagnostic equipment, aftermarket scan tools and immobilizer functions. Under the up...

Brembo has announced that it will be presenting an expanded aftermarket and upgrade portfolio aimed at multiple mobility segments at the Automechanika Frankfurt 2026. It believes the event will put brake emissions, electrification and broader vehicle coverage in focus for the aftermarket. The company's display will cover applications for passenger cars, commercial vehicles, light commercial vehicles (LCVs), motorcycles, bicycles and electrified platforms. Brembo said the range is intende...

Kinetic, a US-based operator of AI-enabled service hubs for modern vehicles, has announced the opening of two Kinetic Hubs in Phoenix, marking the company’s first entry into Arizona, US, and its first Kinetic Hub in Los Angeles. The three facilities will support auto body shops and service centers across Arizona and Southern California, US, with appraisal, diagnostics, programming and calibration services for vehicles equipped with advanced driver assistance systems and for emerging autonom...

Akebono Brake Corporation has added six brake pad part numbers to expand replacement coverage for European luxury models, electric vehicles, heavy-duty pickups, and commercial vans in North America. The release involves expanding coverage across its EURO and Severe Duty branded product lines.The additions include four EURO Ultra-Premium Ceramic Brake Pad part numbers and two Severe Duty brake pad part numbers. Combined, the six new part numbers add coverage for more than 8.6 million vehicl...

Liqui Moly plans to convert its long-standing presence in China into a wholly owned sales subsidiary in summer 2026, a move that the German automotive chemicals company says will give it direct importer status in one of the world's most competitive and fast-changing automotive markets. The new entity, Liqui Moly Shanghai, will be the company's 10th foreign subsidiary. It will be based in Shanghai, where Liqui Moly already operates an office. The expansion is part of a broader push to strength...

Mahle chargeBIG has just unveiled a new four-port alternating current (AC) charging terminal at the Power2Drive in Munich on June 23–25. The charger can serve up to four electric vehicles at the same time, delivering 22 kilowatts at each outlet. The new charging terminal combines payment hardware and charging connections into a single compact enclosure. The Mahle Group unit, which focuses on intelligent and scalable charging, is also adding financing options, a revised s...

Yokohama Rubber Co. has introduced a passenger car all-season tire, the BluEarth-AllSeason2, scheduled to go on sale in Europe in September 2026. The tire maker said it will offer the new product in 74 sizes for premium cars, SUVs and battery-electric vehicles. The BluEarth-AllSeason2 will replace the BluEarth-4S AW21 and is positioned by Yokohama Rubber as its second-generation Yokohama all-season tire for Europe. The company says the launch reflects a broader shift in European tire demand, ...

Valeo Service UK has added 105 references to its Valeo Re-Gen program, which it says now gives independent workshops and parts distributors in Europe wider access to remanufactured rotating electrics and air conditioning components. The expansion adds coverage for a further 22 million vehicles and brings the range to more than 3,100 references. The new references comprise 59 air conditioning compressors and 46 starters and alternators, covering older vehicles and newer high-volume European ap...

Terrepower, previously known as BBB Industries, announced that it has named Michelle Allen executive vice president, Independent Aftermarket Sales, succeeding Chris Garner, who plans to retire at the end of 2026. Allen has more than two decades of leadership experience in the automotive aftermarket and broader commercial sector. Before joining Terrepower, she was vice president of North America Sales — DIFM at Valvoline Global, where she held P&L responsibility for a major North America...

At the recently held UK Garage & Bodyshop Event 2026, ZF Aftermarket presented digital workshop tools, technical support programs and service solutions for independent workshops working with a more complex vehicle parc. ZF said the offering was aimed at improving workshop efficiency, strengthening technical capability and creating new revenue opportunities. The event was held at the NEC Birmingham on June 3 and June 4. The display included ZF [pro]Manager, a digital workshop manageme...

Exide Technologies, a provider of battery solutions for automotive and industrial applications, announced that it will present its Exide AGM light vehicle battery range at Automechanika Frankfurt 2026 in September 2026, using the event to highlight battery products for automotive aftermarket customers.  Exide said its stand at the event will also include expert-led sessions, practical training and product insights focused on trends affecting the automotive aftermarket. According to the c...

Groupauto International (GAI), which operates in the automotive aftermarket through a network of distributors, service providers and repair specialists, has taken full ownership of technology company Softeca, acquiring the remaining shares after first buying a 33% stake in 2022. The deal completes Softeca's integration into GAI and is intended to support GAI's digital transformation work in the automotive aftermarket. GAI said the acquisition will also give Softeca financial backing for conti...

Select Automotive, a UK-based supplier of automotive components to the aftermarket, has expanded its product portfolio with 61 additional aftermarket references, split between 51 window regulator items and 10 steering knuckles. The additions cover applications including Audi, Range Rover, Mercedes, Honda, VW, Seat and Skoda models, with details available through the latest catalogs on the company's website. The update includes references for the front window regulator on the seco...

Meyle, a Germany-based manufacturer of replacement parts for the independent aftermarket, has announced that it will present its latest solutions and product portfolio at Automechanika Frankfurt 2026 on Sept. 8–12. A central feature at its stand will be live automatic transmission oil change demonstrations. These sessions are intended to give visitors a workshop-style view of practical expertise, hands-on product use, efficient servicing procedures, specialist tools and best-practice mainte...

LKQ Euro Car Parts has introduced ERA Reman alternators and starter motors in the UK, adding 1,400 SKUs to its catalog of more than 100,000 parts. The company says the products are original equipment-level remanufactured components intended for independent workshops and fleets. The products are made in Europe, drawing on more than 30 years of remanufacturing expertise, according to the press release, which adds that units are rebuilt to OE specification, with OE parts used where applicable an...

Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), an automotive manufacturer and supplier, announced that it has completed phase two of a transaction to buy selected First Brands Group (FBG) assets. The company said the deal will initially restore close to 300 jobs and expand its North American manufacturing, engineering, distribution and employment base. In April 2026, PGI announced the completion of its acquisition of key intellectual property (IP) and related assets from First Brands Group. The Group filed f...

Ford has opened a new online store for previously owned Ford components under the Ford Certified Used Parts brand, with purchases handled through usedparts.ford.co.uk. The service delivers inspected and certified used parts to customers through a platform run by Autonative, Ford's aftersales e-commerce partner, in partnership with vehicle dismantling specialist Charles Trent. The company said every item offered through the site is checked one by one, given a condition grade and photographed b...

Australian automotive aftermarket parts distributor CoolDrive Auto Parts announced that it has added a second site in South Australia, establishing a branch at Melrose Park to serve customers in Adelaide's southern suburbs. The outlet is intended to provide workshop operators and trade buyers with broader local access to parts, product ranges and support, alongside the company's existing Salisbury South location. The Melrose Park branch increases CoolDrive's coverage across Adelaide and is po...

Snap-on Inc., a manufacturer and marketer of tools, equipment, diagnostics, repair information and system solutions for vehicle repair and other sectors, announced that it acquired Diesel Laptops for approximately $100 million in cash on June 8. Diesel Laptops is headquartered in Irmo, South Carolina. Its business focuses on diagnostics, repair information and digital solutions for commercial trucks and off-highway vehicles, and it will operate within Snap-on's Repair Systems & Informatio...

Valeo plans to add more than 70 references for hybrid and electric vehicles to its Thermal Exchanger range in the first half of 2026 in an effort to widen its new-energy vehicle (NEV) aftermarket offering. The expansion is aimed mainly at condensers and radiators used in high- and low-temperature systems, as demand grows for thermal management components to electrified vehicles. The new references are intended for recent applications from European automakers. Models covered include the Audi E...

NTN, the parent company of BCA Bearings, announced that it has added 11 part numbers to the BCA Bearings aftermarket range in North America, expanding wheel bearing and wheel hub assembly availability for Lexus, Toyota and Mazda applications. The expansion targets original equipment (OE)-quality coverage for key models that account for more than 800,000 vehicles in operation (VIO) in North America. The company said the newly issued parts extend BCA's reach in late-model import platforms,...

Snap-on Inc., a manufacturer and marketer of tools, equipment, diagnostics, repair information and system solutions for vehicle repair and other sectors, has introduced an online booking system at PTAprogramming.com for users of Pass Thru Assistant and Pass Thru Assistant+ who need remote programming services. The tool is designed for automotive repair shops scheduling J2534 programming appointments, allowing them to choose time slots that fit their shop flow while reducing delays and bo...

Rockford Fosgate has introduced the PUNCH PRO Speaker Series, a new automotive speaker range that it said is built to deliver the highest output in the PUNCH lineup. The products are aimed at sound pressure level (SPL) competition vehicles, high-volume street performance and performance-oriented installations. SPL competition vehicles are heavily modified cars and trucks built to generate extreme bass and the highest possible decibel levels. The company said that the PUNCH PRO range uses high...

BendPak Inc., a US-based manufacturer and marketer of vehicle service equipment and specialty consumer products, announced that its Ranger Division has introduced the Leverless Auto Bead Lifter Kit for use on its tilt-back tire changers, bringing automation to the bead-lifting stage of tire service. The kit replaces prybars and conventional tire irons with a steady, controlled lifting motion that BendPak said improves speed, safety and ergonomics while helping protect the wheel and the person...

Australian automotive aftermarket parts distributor CoolDrive Auto Parts has announced that one of the braking brands that it distributes, Bremtec Brakes, has added Long-Life Ceramic+ Brake Pads to its Euro-Line range, with CoolDrive Auto Parts carrying the product now for European vehicle applications. The launch gives workshops and motorists a brake pad option intended to combine durability, quiet use and reliable braking. The Ceramic+ pads are built around advanced materials and premium co...

Technology suppliers MAHLE and Rohde & Schwarz have jointly developed a technical application that enables testing sensors in modern advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) after repair. The company says that the application targets the lack of standardized measurement methods after accidents or repair work, especially involving vehicle body parts. The platform brings together MAHLE Lifecycle and Mobility's TechPRO Digital ADAS 2.0 Extra and the R&S RadEsT radar tester from Rohde &a...

AISIN is expanding its ADVICS brake disc offering with about 1,000 new references, aiming ultimately to reach 97% coverage across the vehicle fleet in Europe. The additions expand the ADVICS brake component lineup that includes brake pads, brake fluid, master cylinders and wheel cylinders. The new ADVICS discs are intended for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles (LCVs). AISIN says it is drawing on ADVICS' original-equipment background, with its products installed on 50% of Japanese m...

Bosch has introduced the Bosch Vehicle Care Assistant (VCA) for small and medium-sized fleet operators and Bosch Car Service workshops, adding to its digital services for customers. The service, offered now in Germany, Denmark, Finland, France, the Netherlands, Spain and the United Kingdom, is intended to help companies improve fleet availability and avoid unplanned downtime. The software links vehicles run by small and medium-sized companies to their selected Bosch Car Service location. Usin...

Hofmann Megaplan has introduced the Megamount 704XL, a tire-changing machine it describes as a heavy-duty unit for current workshop requirements. The new model is available through Hofmann Megaplan, with nationwide support from ISN Europe's equipment and installation teams. Aimed at high-volume professional settings, the Megamount 704XL offers advanced clamping technology, strengthened workshop-grade construction and greater control for operators. The firm said the machine is intended to...

MS Motorservice, the aftermarket sales arm of German powertrain and thermal parts supplier Rheinmetall, has added an electric air conditioning compressor to its aftermarket range for hybrid vehicles, targeting Toyota Prius and Auris models across a worldwide vehicle parc of more than 3 million. The part is intended as a spare component and comes ready for installation with refrigerant oil already inside and two matching O-rings for the connection points. A further range expansion is p...

LKQ Europe has announced that Kevan Wooden is leaving his position as CEO of LKQ UK & Ireland. The company will be run on an interim basis by Dave Brookfield, LKQ Europe's vice president of Human Resources. He assumes the interim CEO role with immediate effect as work begins to identify a permanent successor. In the automotive aftermarket, Brookfield's career spans almost two decades, including 16 years with LKQ. Earlier in his time with the group, he was part of the leadership team for U...

Brembo’s consolidated net revenues declined 2.1% year over year to €937.4 million in the first quarter ended March 31. Net revenue, on a like-for-like exchange rate basis, increased 1.9%. The company recorded EBITDA of €154.7 million, resulting in an EBITDA margin of 16.5%, compared to EBITDA of €153.3 million and an EBITDA margin of 16% in the first quarter of 2025. The Italy-based automotive brake systems supplier reported EBIT of €85.9 million compared to €83.5 million in the f...

Schaeffler Vehicle Lifetime Solutions has introduced a new original equipment (OE)-quality multi-ribbed belt to its INA auxiliary drive systems offering for trucks and buses, expanding its portfolio of pulleys and tensioners. The company said the belt was developed for modern commercial vehicle engines and is available for commonly used models from Mercedes-Benz, MAN, DAF, Volvo, Scania, Iveco and Renault. The new INA FEAD belts are designed to withstand high mechanical loads, high torqu...

BM Catalysts, a UK-based producer of aftermarket emissions products, said that it exhibited at the recently held UK Garage & Bodyshop Event at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham on June 3 and 4. The company welcomed garages, technicians, distributors and aftermarket specialists to its stand, where it said the emphasis was on education, technical support and interactive activities. A central aim, BM Catalysts said, was to raise awareness of BM Garage Pro, its online learnin...

Pražská energetika AS (PRE) has officially opened Prague’s largest electric vehicle charging hub following a yearlong trial operation, expanding charging capacity in a city that accounts for nearly a third of the Czech Republic’s battery-powered cars. The facility, located on Novovysočanská Street in Prague 9, can simultaneously charge as many as 161 EVs, PRE said in a statement. The public charging site features two Alpitronic ultrafast chargers, each capable of delivering up to 4...

GS Yuasa, a battery manufacturer, announced that it showcased the company's latest products, tools and interactive experiences at the recently held UK Garage & Bodyshop Event. GS Yuasa said that it connected directly with workshops and demonstrated technologies around the future of battery diagnostics, charging and replacement. On display throughout the event were GS Yuasa's latest workshop technologies, including the GYT250 Battery Tester, YCX Smart Charger range and Yu-Fit+ Battery Conf...

Eaton's Mobility Group said it has expanded its flywheel portfolio by adding five new part numbers intended for heavy- and medium-duty truck applications. The expanded offering is aimed at supporting widely used engines and platforms across North America. Eaton said the additional part numbers are meant to help fleets, distributors and service professionals more easily identify replacement flywheels and keep vehicles in service with dependable components, while also reducing downtime and simp...

NAPA Auto Parts UK and Ireland has launched a new e-catalog on its website, introducing a faster, more intuitive way for customers to identify and source parts.  NAPA said the updated catalog is designed to be easier to use and navigate, with enhanced product filtering and daily updates intended to keep part numbers and applications current. It also adds VRM search for the UK and Ireland to help users find the correct components. The new system offers selectable product displays, incl...

Motorcar Parts of America (MPA), a US-based remanufacturer, manufacturer and distributor of automotive aftermarket parts, has reported net sales for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2026 at $212.3 million, up 9.9% from $193.1 million a year earlier.  The company reported net income of $9.7 million, or $0.42 per diluted share, compared with a net loss of $722,000, or $0.04 per share, in the prior-year quarter. Gross profit rose 30.9% to $50.4 million, and gross margin increased to 23.7% from ...