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INVESTING FOR FUTURE SUSTAINABILITY
(Article published in L’Automobile magazine, June 2023)
By Isabelle Havasy
Consumers’ growing enthusiasm for zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) is causing significant disruption in the aftermarket industry, and the collision repair sector is no exception.
According to Domenic Prochilo, COO at Simplicity Car Care, health and safety should be at the top of collision centres’ list of concerns. “If we don’t disconnect all auxiliary batteries and perform dent removal, or welding work on EVs without the proper tools, the consequences could prove far more serious than a simple injury.” In addition to rigorously applying the original equipment manufacturer’s (OEM) power-down procedure, all centres must “ensure that the protective clothing, safety instructions and tools used are compatible with the vehicle in question.”
Exploring New Horizons
Making a workplace safe also implies mastering the specific characteristics inherent to each OEM. A complex sector where “it may be more difficult to offer” a generalized service, the bodywork environment could, over the next decade, see the emergence of collision centres specialized in certain makes, where insurers and OEMs would work in partnership, believes Mr. Prochilo. In addition to “involving their vendors, this alignment would encompass the automotive supply chain and aftermarket. Although this solution might appear complicated, it could provide an interesting alternative in terms of capacity, performance management and repair quality.”
Training and certification of crews working with EVs are another key factor that helps prevent accidents. In addition to offering “the best training available”, Simplicity Car Care plans to develop its own independent certifications for its Simplifiers. Based on their professional repair knowledge, these certifications will enable better internal performance management, while simultaneously upgrading employees skills through continuous learning. “We’re also doubling I-CAR internal training for both our in-house staff and those working in our service department, which manages a large proportion of estimates across our network.”
An Investment for Future Sustainability
With proven procedures and a growing reputation, Simplicity Car Care can help you navigate this period of change. The company is reaching out to all businesses aiming to position themselves as a high-performance, profitable body shop for the long term. “We’re here for you! » concludes Prochilo.
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