THE VOICE OF THE AFRICAN COLLISION REPAIR INDUSTRY

Autorobot and Hurricane Equipment have expanded EzCalipre’s vehicle measurement database with data from 60 new models, including Chinese brands. The partnership strengthens South Africa’s collision repair capabilities, helping body shops keep pace with evolving vehicle technologies, ADAS requirements and repair standards.

Edge Automotive Marketplace is digitising South Africa’s fragmented parts supply chain by creating a secure platform where suppliers can catalogue and sell stock. The system improves parts visibility and unlocks value from redundant inventory while delivering greater efficiency and trust.

PPG introduced the fast-drying Deltron D8178 Rapid Low Energy clearcoat. It optimises refinish processes with flexible drying options, significant energy savings, enhanced productivity, and consistent high-quality finishes, empowering body shops and painters.

The South African Competition Commission accuses Audatex of discriminatory pricing against historically disadvantaged repairers. The firm allegedly charges smaller businesses higher fees for software services. Recent vehicle model influx and repair challenges further complicate the industry, demanding upskilling for technicians.

In a few years, Luxor Paints, partnering with Zheijang Refine, has strengthened its market presence with advanced spray guns and pneumatic sanders. Their products, featuring innovative designs, ensure efficiency and longevity, supported by extensive training for technicians and a diverse distributor network.

Automechanika Dubai 2026 is set for significant growth, with 2,400 exhibitors and strong international participation. The event will spotlight Africa’s rapidly expanding automotive sector, addressing key trends including Chinese brands, electrification, mobility solutions and aftersales opportunities across the region.

As electric vehicles become more complex, consumers must ensure their insurance covers manufacturer-approved repairs. Rising repair costs, advanced technology and high write-off rates make choosing qualified repairers essential to protect vehicle safety, performance and long-term value after a collision.

Preea Singh’s four-decade automotive career has taken her from family vehicle trading and drag racing to leading Nissan South Africa’s aftersales and approved body repair programmes. Passionate about the industry, she continues to champion network growth, technical excellence and greater opportunities for women.

Roger Houghton takes us through some snap shots of what is happening in motoring around South Africa. Some highlights are Volkswagen’s celebration of the one-millionth current-generation Polo in Kariega as global manufacturers face mounting challenges from Chinese competition as well as South African driver Sheldon van der Linde achieving a historic Le Mans podium placement.

Dust in body shops causes health risks and paint defects, necessitating extensive rework. It contains harmful metals leading to respiratory issues. Preventive measures like at-source extraction, proper PPE, and effective ventilation help protect technicians and ensure quality finishes.

Karabo Senyane, inspired by a friend’s encouragement, pursued a spray painting learnership at C3 Autobody Repair Academy after her mother’s passing. She developed her skills, became a trusted professional, and aspires to become an operations manager and own her workshop.

Axalta’s Fast Cure Low Energy (FCLE) technology enhances body shop productivity with reduced environmental impact. The Spies Hecker Speed-TEC System optimises workflows and cuts drying times. It ensures OEM-compliant finishes, all while minimising energy consumption and emissions, supporting sustainable operations.

Thatcham Research is urging automakers to design electric vehicles that are easier and cheaper to repair. Improved battery serviceability, standardised diagnostics and repair-friendly components could reduce unnecessary write-offs, lower insurance costs and make EV ownership more sustainable and affordable.

AutoMX’s Save-A-Car option allows customers to repair vehicles instead of writing them off, reducing costs in collaboration with insurance companies and dealerships. A 24-hour response time improves customer satisfaction, alongside the Parts Hotline for quicker parts sourcing.

After Western brands exited Russia due to sanctions, Chinese automakers filled the void. However, vehicles struggled with durability in harsh climates, leading to corrosion issues and high maintenance costs. Increased initial prices remain, fuelled by cultural perceptions of status.

Consumers and vehicle repairers view insurers negatively due to transparency issues, unfair claims handling, and profit concerns. Insurers need to rebuild trust through greater openness, fairer treatment of repairers, improved customer engagement, and commitment to policyholders’ best interests.

Santam enhances policyholder experiences through modernisation, focusing on technological integration, client indemnity, and specialised EV training for future readiness. Their focus is on fair treatment and industry transformation, including electric vehicle safety and repair processes through specialised training and collaboration.

Andrew Marsh argues that Europe’s automotive industry faces a profound shift as Chinese manufacturers expand rapidly and legacy business models falter. Collision repair businesses must anticipate changing supply chains, vehicle ownership and recycling trends, adapting now rather than waiting for disruption to arrive.

Spray painting, refinish paint, technology and techniques have changed a lot over the years, and as such, it’s always good to get back to basics. Take a closer look at 2k basecoat and clearcoat applications, traits and understand solids better in their utilisation.

The 2026 UK Garage & Bodyshop Event reflected the aftermarket’s growing focus on diagnostics, electrification and repair technology. While body shop representation declined, innovative products, technical discussions and creative vehicle projects highlighted the industry’s continued evolution ahead of Automechanika Frankfurt.

IBIS Global Summit in Vienna gathered leaders to discuss AI, sustainability, and industry collaboration. The event promoted networking and interaction, culminating in plans for future IBIS events in 2027.

At a recent Porsche driving event, potholes on the route were surprisingly repaired, likely due to a tip-off that high-profile cars would be involved. Porsche introduced new service plans to improve competitiveness and enhance the ownership experience for new and pre-owned vehicles.

Thatcham Research’s EV Blueprint outlines eight essential recommendations to enhance electric vehicle insurability and repairability. This focusses on safety, sustainability, and affordability, to address challenges in managing battery damages and improve post-collision processes for the growing EV market.

A California traffic stop exposed a flaw in regulating autonomous cars after an illegal U-turn. With no legal framework to cite machines, enforcement gaps persist. Experts warn countries like South Africa must address infrastructure, liability, and accountability before adopting self-driving vehicles.

Ronnie Lurie’s remarkable 50-year career in South Africa’s automotive refinishing industry mirrors the meticulous preparation behind a flawless finish. Co-founding Premier Chemicals and later Luxor Paints with his wife, he exemplifies resilience, integrity, and dedication, leaving a lasting legacy.

Reducing defects in automotive refinishing enhances efficiency and customer satisfaction. Some common issues include yellowing clearcoat, color mismatches, corrosion, and cracking. Preventive measures include proper application techniques and thorough preparations, while remedies involve refinishing and ensuring suitable materials and conditions during application.

Border Paints hosted key body show owners at Axalta’s training centre to showcase advanced workflow management systems and AI integration. Border Paints CEO Bruce Cumming, emphasised growth and innovation, while live demonstrations featured Fast Cure Low Energy technology for efficient vehicle repairs.

The South African autobody repair industry faces a double standard with high-priced equipment mandated by vehicle manufacturers. This pricing disparity harms body shops, forcing them to comply with stringent requirements. Affordable, compliant alternatives exist, but stringent approval processes hinder competition and profitability.

Motor body repairers face increasing complexity as that involve numerous stakeholders, necessitating effective information flow. Workshop Boss redefines workshop management by connecting people, processes, and data into a cohesive platform which enhances productivity through integrated communication.

Celette SA’s Vortex RG1 spray booth combines energy efficiency, rapid installation and advanced airflow technology to improve collision repair productivity. Designed for flexibility and lower operating costs, the modular system offers fast heating, reduced maintenance, remote access and durable construction.

The automotive refinish industry evolves through new products and advanced techniques, necessitating ongoing training. The MoonWalk® Certification training by COROB enhances skills in automated paint mixing, improving accuracy and efficiency and ensures safer work environments for collision repair centres.

Caeleigh Campbell Pawson, Operations Manager at Sanrose Motors, has dedicated more than 20 years to the motor industry. She emphasises uplifting others, innovation, and long-term growth while honouring her father’s legacy through community development and mentorship.

The family-owned Pre-Pad Utilities showcased award-winning automotive craftsmanship at Camp Fest 2026 using Glasurit premium coatings and BASF systems to achieve a flawless custom finish. Their Nissan Patrol earned Best Paint on Day2, highlighting precision, innovation, teamwork, and South Africa’s growing customisation excellence.

The Luxor Paints team visited Indasa’s headquarters in Portugal to improve sales and product knowledge, covering training on various new products. The Managers agreed that the visit was successful and will lead to a host of new initiatives for Indasa products in South Africa.

Paintwizz provides precise repair quotations, addressing rising paint costs with scientifically proven methods. Insurers are adopting the system for its data-backed accuracy, enhancing transparency among estimators and assessors. This tool tracks real-time costs, ensuring fair compensation.

The rise of driver assistance technology and vibrant colours boosts vehicle sales, complicating insurance with high repair costs and outdated pricing. In the Netherlands, body shop mergers and insurance acquisitions are reshaping the industry amidst regulatory investigations.

Axalta’s Global Automotive Colour Popularity report once again found white, grey and black dominated. It revealed how enduring neutrals continue to anchor the global palette even as interest rises in finishes that bring greater depth and individuality to vehicle styling.

Henkel provided advanced seam-sealing training to Eazy Paint’s team at Pomona. The training featured MS9320, an isocyanate-free silicone sealant that easily replicates OEM textures. Tested with Powerline II and ET Air guns, the brushable product reduces waste and enhances repair quality.

Paint defects such as clearcoat adhesion loss, plastic part adhesion failure, bleeding, and chipping, stem from improper methods and materials. Prevention includes proper preparation, correct mixing ratios, and using recommended systems. Remedies involve refinishing affected areas appropriately.

Polishing achieves a showroom finish through systematic preparation, proper tools, and techniques. Key steps include cleaning surfaces, using test spots, maintaining pad position, and inspecting results. Avoid common mistakes like excessive pressure and polishing in direct sunlight for optimal results.

Boitshoko Hlongwane, an aspiring artisan, found her passion for collision repair after a law degree detour. Despite challenges, mentorship has honed her skills. Aiming to become a Vehicle Damage Quantifier, she seeks to inspire women in the trade. Her journey emphasises perseverance and teamwork.

As vehicle technology advances, collision repair shops must embrace continuous learning, leadership development and AI-driven innovation. Businesses that prioritise training, adaptability and knowledge sharing improve repair quality, reduce inefficiencies, futureproof operations and position themselves ahead of competitors in a rapidly evolving industry.

Tim Kelly argues the Association of British Insurers uses media propaganda to falsely justify low repair payouts. Although recent whiplash reforms saved insurers R48 billion, consumer premiums rose from 2017 to 2025, proving cost savings are not passed to consumers.

Automated paint stirring systems improve consistency, reduce waste and eliminate repetitive manual labour in body shops. They cut mixing time to under 90 seconds, improve colour accuracy, reduce rework, and save significant technician time, boosting efficiency, profitability and overall repair quality

China’s automotive overcapacity fuels exports, while proliferating models complicate insurer underwriting. For electric vehicles, data scarcity hinders powertrain health assessment. Though traction batteries are the highest-risk and most expensive components, assessing their remaining life and safety remains a major industry challenge.

Europe’s new SERMI system aims to secure vehicle repair data access while combating fraud and cybercrime. However, growing compliance costs, restrictive manufacturer practices and unclear boundaries between security-related and standard repairs risk burdening legitimate collision repairers and accelerating unnecessary vehicle write-offs.

Thatcham Research is ending its partnership with Euro NCAP to develop its own ADAS testing programme. They want to tackle real-world safety find out how to make these systems work when they’re supposed to? Thatcham want these systems to reflect their capability.

Hyundai’s HARP initiative improves parts availability and enhances repairer support. Insurance collaboration and customer education boost demand. With 377 accredited body shops and innovative programmes, they aim for increased compliance and vehicle retention.

Iran’s heavily nationalised automotive industry has developed under sanctions into a major regional producer led by IKCO and Saipa. Despite conflict damage, it produces over a million vehicles annually, relies on localisation, and increasingly incorporates Chinese imports and licensed platforms.

China’s expanding automotive dominance threatens Europe’s manufacturing base, supply chains and collision repair sector. As European brands cut capacity and invite Chinese partnerships, concerns are growing over lost jobs, shrinking parts support and future market dependence that could reshape global vehicle ownership and repair industries.

Accelerated vehicle development cycles are increasing recalls, software faults and safety risks worldwide. South Africa recorded over 50 000 recalls in 2025, highlighting growing concerns around ADAS failures, EV battery risks, airbags and braking systems as manufacturers struggle to balance innovation, cost and reliability.

High insurance premiums are pushing young drivers towards telematics-based policies, leading to resistance against the technology. Research indicates that many feel forced into these options, fostering distrust and scepticism towards innovations in usage-based insurance, threatening future adoption rates.