Will Rimell

CAT Magazine is once again present at Equip Auto in Paris to see what the European and British aftermarket have to offer. There are more than 1800 exhibitions on display, with over 125,000 visitors expected to peruse the stands over the next five days, with 75 percent of exhibitors from abroad.

The first trainers to be recognised for their role in passing on skills in the automotive industry have been named by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI). Allianz Global Assist Technical Training Manager Mike Donley and David Wray, Work Base and ATA Assessor Verifier at Motherwell College, have become the first IMI members to make their mark in the Institute’s new Automotive Trainer and Assessor Professional Recognition Standards.

Supercar giant Ferrari has launched its 2013 apprenticeship programme to create future independent specialists. The 11 successful applicants will take part in the three-year scheme, which includes 24 weeks of dedicated training at the home of Ferrari North Europe

Parts information data provider Tecdoc has announced the addition of Mobiletron UK to its ranks. The electronic and subsystem specialist is one of the latest replacement parts manufacturers to achieve official data supplier status on TecDoc’s CATALOG software

TRW has produced a series of videos examining the core competencies of components in the braking, steering and suspension systems. The Corner Module campaign gives users an insight to the basics components used, and into the OE side of the business, TRW Automotive and its research and development programmes.

Independent garage membership of Motor Codes’ Service and Repair Code has passed the 2000 mark for the first time. Subscription rates from independents have increased by 45% so far in 2013 and bolstered numbers on the scheme with its garage finder and customer rating website.

Technicians need to be far more active in explaining different oils to motorists and why their cars need them, says supplier Mobil 1. Research carried out by the oil giant shows that only four percent of drivers actually choose which grade they put in their car, while a majority rely on the technician to make the choice.

Paul Clark explains why family comes first for EEC and how the Union Jack helps sell products even to German customers who appreciate UK quality

Motor Parts Direct has continued on the acquisition trail and added a further five branches to its network with the purchase of ALS Motor Parts for an undisclosed sum. The acquisition of all ALS branches in Devon brings the MPD total number of outlets to 67 and turnover close to Managing Director Mukesh Shah’s target of £50 million for 2013.