Autobody news. Mize was sentenced Dec.

Autobody news You have to start somewhere, and some owners make that somewhere from scratch. 11. New Year, New Work. D. Price, who joined BendPak in 2023, takes on a new role as director of quality control, product development and management for the Special Products Romain Grosjean, renowned IndyCar racer, former Formula 1 driver and entrepreneur, has been announced as the keynote speaker for Fix Network’s Global Conference, taking place April 27-May 1 in Playa Mujeres, Mexico. ". 5 in Spokane, WA, by U. Unnecessary Charges. This year's theme, "Create Your Own Magic," emphasizes innovation, empowerment and professional growth within the collision repair Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. Navy veteran Terry Lane was presented with a fully refurbished 2017 Chevrolet Silverado in Phoenix. Brandon Sides and his family recently received a fully refurbished 2020 Ford Fusion SEL through the National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides program. 81 million in 2023. People on the CREF's student scholarship applications are currently open through March 6, while grant applications for schools will open Jan. The Collision Industry Electronic Commerce Association (CIECA) announced the next CIECA Webinar will be held at 11 a. The MSO also bought Franklin Auto Body in December 2023 and Capital Auto Body in March, both in Boise. Gavin Newsom unveiled plans for a state rebate program to support EV buyers, but Tesla, the nation’s largest EV manufacturer, would be excluded. S. “We were looked at by an MSO but Sony Honda Mobility of America Inc. He is dedicated to advancing the collision repair A single mother in need recently received a vehicle to provide her and her family greater independence thanks to the National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides program along with vehicle donor Farmers and collision repair partner Freeman Collision Center of Santa Rosa, CA. “The younger generation truly has the ability to do it,” he told Autobody News. Products. 14 during its annual convention held in Hollywood, FL. The partnership, unveiled during CES 2025, positions Crash Champions as the exclusive provider of comprehensive Jan 16, 2025 News. Vehicle thefts, carjackings and catalytic converter thefts are all nearing record highs. One of the Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. The proceeds from the sale of the Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. The report showed claims frequency for BEVs rose to 3. CCC’s research also shows current year and newer electric vehicles (EVs) are slightly more likely to Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. Maura Healey has signed legislation to increase the state's minimum mandatory auto insurance coverage limits, a move set to take effect for policies issued or renewed on or after July 1. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY He recently told Autobody News about a program JDM Collision plans to start in a charter school for underserved kids. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, it is increasingly being used in the collision repair industry for tasks such as damage assessment, estimating repair costs, and parts ordering and inventory management. automotive brand loyalty is rebounding, reaching 52. The episodes will be available on the Autobody News YouTube page for viewing on-demand. Greg Horn, chief industry relations officer at PartsTrader. “It is with great excitement that we add someone of Lauren Wilbor’s caliber to the SEMA Government A Minnesota father’s life took a turn for the better Jan. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY In light of the coming changes in the presidential administration and the start of a new congressional term next year, the Automotive Service Association (ASA) will remain involved in efforts to address technician training programs and vehicle data access, among other issues, ASA head lobbyist Bob Redding said during a webinar Dec. The collaborative effort demonstrates a commitment by the three Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. The 2021 Ford F-150 is a collaboration between automotive designer and artist Chip Foose, known for his car-customization reality television series “Overhaulin,” and RealTruck Inc. The figure represents an 18% increase since 2021 and an additional 82,000 vehicles compared to 2023, the previous record-setting year. military veterans the gift of reliable transportation. Manufacturer Website Evaluation Study — Winter. Todd Dillender has been with Caliber since 1998, when the shop he was working for became just This follows the decisive April vote where employees voted nearly 3 to 1 in favor of joining the United Auto Workers (UAW. 16 at Bumper and Auto of Omaha in Nebraska, located near 13th and Center streets. 15 to find heavy smoke and flames pouring from the windows and doors of the shop, prompting an immediate working fire Autobody News also found retiring owners selling shops in Bozeman, MT, Bremond, TX, and parts of Michigan. told Autobody News, reflecting on the company’s rapid growth with its 50th and 51st store partnerships. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) announced its award winners for 2024. He recently helped kick off “Insurance Talk: Navigating Insurance and Repairs,” the latest series on The Collision Odometer fraud is on the rise across the U. At least one wants to expand out of state, operating now in Cali, and attempting to add an operation in Texas. Since the start of the pandemic, data trends analyzed by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) have indicated a drastic increase in vehicle crime across the U. Autobody News is the top news publisher for the collision repair industry, delivering five monthly regional magazines to 35K body shops across the U. Lugo, also known as “Coco,” allegedly caused the He’s the go-to lawyer/lobbyist in California for the automotive repair industry and represents several statewide automotive associations, including the California Autobody Association (CAA) and Automotive Service Councils of California (ASCCA). The study revealed just 50% of mass market new-vehicle shoppers and 52% of premium new Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. The initiative comes as a response to concerns that President-elect Donald Trump may repeal the $7,500 federal EV tax credit. Five are new, four of whom have less time on the planet than owner John Melendez has in shops. -based lobbying group. But some easing of costs is possible. Autobody News research and material from the California Autobody Association (CAA) underpin what follows. P. Baily Soto and Mavrick Knoles from Legacy EV appeared on The Collision Vision podcast, driven by Massachusetts Gov. Newsom’s proposal aims to revive a previously expired state rebate Autobody News Staff December Auto Sales Expected to Show Modest Growth Amid Volatility Forecasts call for a projected 2024 total of 16. Parker was traveling the world sharing information about his UK-based company’s technology and processes. is entering 2025 with updates to its leadership team. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY California Gov. This segment offers in-depth analysis and news on technological advancements shaping the future of vehicle repair, safety, and efficiency. The presentation will be available exclusively on Zoom. This recognition celebrates the top multi-shop owner in the Maaco network, who is excelling in all areas of the business---sales, quality, operational excellence and leadership. The funds will provide essential tools, equipment and scholarships to help students excel in the automotive industry. “We were kind of southeast of the hurricane -- the main path it The Michigan State Capitol in Lansing, MI. 19. “While affordability remains a headwind for many consumers seeking new or used vehicles, the industry's upward trend in As Minnesota's deer season begins, Fix Auto Brooklyn Park and Fix Auto Maple Grove are gearing up for an anticipated increase in vehicle repairs caused by deer collisions. “We’re trying to get a fourth by the end of the year,” President Paul Williams said. In December, approximately 5. “We are thrilled to welcome One Stop Auto to the Classic Collision family,” said Missouri National Guard Cpl. Petersburg, FL, has expanded its facility from 17,000 to 39,000 square feet, doubling its capacity to meet growing customer demand and cementing its expertise in Tesla-certified repairs. Reflecting on 2024, Tuggle emphasized this year was about strengthening ABAT’s foundation. 0 million units, and a slight increase to 16. Steve Dawson, Washington, D. , transitioned to Crash Champions effective immediately with the finalization of the deal Dec. Aaron Schulenburg, executive director of the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), noted examples of laser welds being used on the 2021 Acura TLX and U. 23, Tyler Bachmeier, along with his wife and newborn son, received a fully restored 2021 Chevrolet Traverse, donated by Farmers Insurance and repaired by Abra Auto Body. He also has upcoming work with high schools and community colleges on co-op programs for interns. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY Statistics showing self-driving cars are involved in significantly more accidents per mile driven than their human-operated counterparts is contributing to deep-seated concerns and skepticism among Americans towards the burgeoning technology, Forbes Advisor reported. Clore Automotive Introduces New PRO-LOGIX Battery Charger/Maintainer Jan 16, 2025. When I sat down to talk to Jon Parker, owner of Bodyshop Revolution, he had just returned from a two-week trip that included stops in London, Paris, Dubai, Singapore, Auckland and Melbourne. EST Feb. E. 8% increase from the previous year and nearing the pre-pandemic benchmark of 54. The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) announced the addition of Lauren Wilbor as manager of digital communications and partnerships, a move aimed at expanding the organization’s outreach to automotive enthusiasts and online creators. R. The Gravity features seating for up to seven passengers, a spacious interior with 120 cubic feet of cargo John Yoswick is a longtime writer for Autobody News and editor of the weekly CRASH Network newsletter, which conducts regular surveys of collision repair shops to find out how their business -- and relationships with insurers in particular -- are faring. The new guidelines, proposed by the California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. “Now we are focused on winning a contract that reflects the hard work and dedication of every worker here. It’s a path that fits the stated aim of its founder to give body shoppers “a platform for all things collision. 18 million units in 2025. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY Crash Champions announced the expansion of its LUXE | EV Certified brand, a collection of best-in-class certified repair centers specializing in highline and luxury EVs, after finalizing a deal to acquire the Charles Barker Automotive Collision Center in Virginia Beach, VA. “These awards represent outstanding achievement in many areas of ASE certification,” said Dave Johnson, ASE president and CEO. Known for his resilience and innovation, Grosjean will bring his unique insights to a gathering of industry leaders and franchisees. Consultant Laura Gay has helped sell shops for hopeful recreators in, for instance, Arkansas. Electric Vehicles. The company has appointed Sean Price, David Reunert and Tyler Rex to critical roles aimed at strengthening its operations and market presence. Petrane started working for Maaco in 2006 as a national account manager, and later as national sales director and vice president of Maaco Fleet The Women’s Industry Network (WIN) has opened registration for its 2025 Annual WIN Conference, set to take place May 5–7, 2025, at the Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista – Disney Springs Area in Lake Buena Vista, FL. Mandell was the featured guest for CIECA’s first webinar of the Alesha Duchesne and Savannah Brown each received refurbished vehicles through the National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides program, with help from car donor GEICO and repair partner Kaizen Collision Center. 3 to 3. 5% of claims YTD 2024 are deemed a total loss -- a 79% increase in total loss processing frequency since 2013. Power 2025 U. , to deliver maintenance and repair services for its mobility brand, AFEELA. Brightpoint now has 11 locations in six states, according to its website -- Subletting out certain steps in the repair process can hurt a shop’s operational flow and its bottom line. The annual report, which evaluates brands based on road-test performance, reliability, owner satisfaction and safety, shows shifts in the automotive landscape this year. 23 at Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale, AZ. Memphis-based Brightpoint Auto Body Repair acquired Uria Auto Body in Nampa, ID, its third deal there. Click on the regional area of your choice or subscribe here. The event, attended by nearly 300 franchisees, vendor partners and corporate team members, highlighted achievements in sales growth, operational excellence and leadership within the Maaco network. ” He said dealers should “implement robust backup systems and diversify IT infrastructure, to reduce reliance on a single provider. west Digital Magazine Edition Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. The award recognizes outstanding technological developments with significant market relevance in the automotive supplier industry, automotive workshop and services sector, or original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). 8 million in fines during the first three quarters of the year, nearly seven times the total penalties issued in all of 2023, according to a new enforcement report. 2% observed in 2019. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY William Oldham Mize, the mastermind behind a complex multimillion-dollar insurance fraud operation in Washington, was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison and ordered to pay more than $7 million in restitution. On Dec. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY With more than 1,700 stores across 41 states, Caliber Collision is by far the largest MSO in the U. 6: “Collision Industry Update: What You Need to Know. “That was a huge milestone for us,” said Wendy Patrick, the company’s chief administrative officer. Claims frequency for collision-damaged battery electric vehicles (BEVs) rose year-over-year in the U. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY Scott Shinn, advanced technical service specialist in 3M’s Personal Safety Division, and Jason Scharton, 3M’s global industry relations leader for the collision repair industry, spoke about the latest advancements in PPE and what shops can do to keep their teams safe and productive on a recent episode of The Collision Vision podcast, driven by Autobody News and . The recall includes the following vehicles: • 2017-2018 Ram 2500 Pickup Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. ” Cyber insurance might also Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. CST/2 p. This podcast will enlighten, Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. ASA has taken a “targeted Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. With about 25 years of experience in the collision repair industry, Batenhorst also serves as Glendale/Foothill chapter president for the California Autobody Extreme Collision Center backs up to a river in a low-lying area. According to the Q3 2024 CCC Crash Course report, 21. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY When the 3D Printing in Collision Repair Task Force began investigating the potential use of 3D printing in the collision industry, participants reached out to HP for guidance. Local news stories affecting the auto body industry in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Connecticut, Maryland, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine. Read the first and second articles. Ironically, a CDK survey that year reported on by Autobody News noted an increase in cybercrime against car sellers. 6% in 2024, a 1. Operations, located at 1020 Dunn Ave. , while claims severity for BEVs decreased during the same timeframe, according to Mitchell’s Q3 2024 “Plugged In: EV Collision Insights” report, released Nov. Kevin Call, who began his career in the auto repair industry after losing a job as a technical writer, built his business from the ground up. The National Auto Body Council’s (NABC) Recycled Rides program recently gave two U. "Deer collisions often involve subtle damage that Stellantis announced the appointment of Tim Kuniskis as CEO of its Ram brand, a strategic move aimed at addressing the sharp decline in sales of its best-selling and most profitable product, the Ram pickup. Rafiq said V2X is communication between a vehicle -- which could be a car, truck or even a burrito delivery robot -- and everything around it -- other vehicles and the local transportation infrastructure. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), self-driving vehicles Tesla's 2024 delivery numbers reflect its first annual decline in history as the EV pioneer contends with intensifying competition and operational hurdles. This year is no exception, so without further ado, here are my current Top 10 wishes for the collision industry, in no particular order. The vehicle is set to provide him the independence needed to Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. The link is ready now to accept questions The Auto Care Association announced the promotion of Daniel Zenko to senior director of data innovation, a move aimed at advancing data-driven strategies to enhance growth and product development in the automotive aftermarket. Trozzo said many of the unnecessary charges on EV repair estimates are related to calibrations: "When it's actually needed or necessary versus Rafiq spoke about why V2X technology will be critical to the future of mobility, including how it could be applied to collision repair. collision repair industry. , with more than 2. Access comprehensive industry reports offering insights into trends, market dynamics, and forecasts that shape the collision repair industry's future. Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. The hires are body techs and the new paint crew at this Chicago-area facility serving five GM dealerships. “It’s a common-sense piece of legislation for an important subset of the car community,” Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. This isn’t necessarily cheap -- if it was, all the people who didn’t do it when it wasn’t easy would join in. , an increase of 47% over Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. education at the event. 3% increase year over year and a 1. Specifically, it says they must be "recovered and, when possible, reused, Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. 29. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY Robbins LLP, a securities law firm, will soon be representing a shareholder who filed a class action lawsuit against Driven Brands Holdings Inc. 5 million. dealerships last year, a record number for the company, as it aims to realign Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. Zenko will lead the association's efforts to harness data in innovative ways, collaborating closely with senior leadership to identify new Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Two chapters of the California Autobody Association are hosting meetings in January to give members an overview of proposed changes to the way collision repair shops can charge for storing vehicles on their property. Hosted by Cole Strandberg, each episode will feature an industry thought leader, business owner or collision pro diving deep into their knowledge of what it takes to be successful. 14, featuring Aaron Schulenburg, executive director of the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), to speak about the study SCRS conducted on paint blend times. 6% in 2023, according to CCC’s latest Crash Course Report. Recent studies show the proportion and frequency of total loss in collision repair is increasing. Over the past week, wildfires in the greater Los Angeles area, including the Palisades and Eaton fires, have Kevin’s Auto Repair, a staple of its community in Huntsville, AL, for 35 years, has officially transitioned to new ownership, as founder Kevin Call sold the business to his son Christopher. (SHMA) announced a partnership with Crash Champions, one of the largest networks of automotive collision repair centers in the U. To help reduce current catalytic converter theft trends and protect consumers, NICB is partnering with The Southeast Collision Conference, scheduled for May 2-3 in Richmond, VA, is again featuring the Washington Metro Auto Body Association’s (WMABA) Collision P. Milwaukee Introduces New M18 Six Bay Daisy Chain Rapid Charger Jan 13 With automakers introducing laser welds in the manufacturing environment over the last few years, many collision repairers are recognizing its potential use as an alternative to MIG and TIG welding. and reaching over 500K Stay informed about the latest happenings in the auto repair industry with autobody news, delivering the most current and relevant insights for your body shop business. Get BendPak Inc. Insurers faced $2. CCI offers a comprehensive apprenticeship program that empowers Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY Andrew Batenhorst, body shop manager at Pacific BMW Collision Center in the Los Angeles, CA, area, is a leader with a vision for how to embed safety in the day-to-day practices of body shops. Bachmeier, who Leif’s Auto Collision Center in Tigard, OR, which claims to be "America’s largest independent body shop" on its website, is preparing to close its doors in April, marking the end of a 33-year legacy. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY Mitchell International said the company’s cloud estimating system will now allow users to set up at the profile level their own default settings for clear coat, three-stage, two-tone, blend, finish sand and buff, de-nib and finesse, and refinish adjustments. Collision Career Institute (CCI) was founded in 2015. C. The latest additions bring the total 2024 award count to 48 Top Safety Pick+ winners and 56 Top Safety Pick recipients. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. Makes sense, considering the paint center A one-of-a-kind truck build unveiled at the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas is set to be auctioned off Jan. 14 million vehicles potentially affected this year, according to CARFAX. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY The automotive market is experiencing a stark divergence: while new vehicle prices remain above $50,000, used car prices have fallen significantly, according to ZeroSum's "State of the Dealer: 2024 Overview and 2025 Outlook. “In 2014, when we merged with our first private equity partner, Carousel Capital, we had 23 locations. Navy, went on Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. SB 615 would require electric vehicle batteries to be disposed of properly. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY Frank Petrane is the new brand president of Maaco, succeeding Dave Gross, who served as interim president but now moves back into his role as senior vice president of franchise services and strategic integration. Because AI use cases are a broad and complex topic, this article Florida Insurance Commissioner Michael Yaworsky has increased enforcement efforts, leading to a rise in fines and restitution for policyholders in 2024. Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. Many years, I spend some time during the closing weeks of December or the early weeks of January thinking about some of the key things I’d like to see transpire in the industry in the year ahead. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY Welcome to The Collision Vision, driven by Autobody News. Kuniskis, who retired in May after nearly 32 years with Stellantis, is stepping back into leadership as the company grapples with an 18% drop in Ram The automotive program at Ogden High School in Utah now boasts a brand-new CTR9 resistance spot welder, valued at more than $42,000, thanks to a partnership between Young Automotive Group, Precision For Collision and Car-O-Liner, facilitated by the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation. Maurice Wilson, from Coon Rapids, received a 2023 Nissan Altima donated by GEICO and refurbished by CARSTAR. This marks a 1. According to a report from Japanese outlet Nikkei Asia, discussions between the companies could lead to a significant As EVs continue to grow their market share in vehicle sales, they are showing up more frequently in collision repair shops -- EVs represented 2. The acquisition was accompanied by the opening of two new greenfield locations in Georgia. . west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY This article, written by CCI CEO Erick Bickett, is the third in CCI's exclusive series for Autobody News addressing the critical challenges in attracting and retaining top talent in the collision repair industry. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY In an effort to refine its brand presence and keep pace with luxury market dynamics, Lincoln announced Jan. We note if bills failed or passed, were vetoed or signed into law, and key regulations on the way. Firefighters arrived shortly before midnight Jan. Fourth quarter deliveries reached 495,570, a slight increase from the prior year's 484,507, but fell short of In an interview with Autobody News, days after the strike ended, Greg Horn, chief industry relations officer for PartsTrader, said the automotive parts industry had "dodged a bullet here. Redding shared his insights on what a Trump presidency, GOP Senate and potentially a Republican U. Autobody News spoke to several shop owners and employees throughout the Honda and Nissan are reportedly exploring the possibility of a merger, signaling a potential shift in the automotive industry as the two Japanese automakers aim to boost their EV capabilities and regain momentum in the competitive market. 25 it closed approximately 100 U. ” The one-hour live broadcast News Consumer Reports Calls for Next Transportation Secretary to Improve Driving Automation Technology and Autonomous Vehicle Crash Reporting Program Fix Auto Canada Adds Collision Repair Center to Network in Alberta Ed Gerber Named CEO at Auveco Enlyte’s Trends Report Examines Year of Generative AI Applications Open for AASPMN Scholarships Women’s Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. PST/1 p. These changes, effective between December 2024 and January 2025, position experienced leaders in roles across the company's automotive, packaging and traffic solutions divisions. Authentic Auto Body is in Holliston, MA. 4% of repairable claims in the first half of 2024, up from 1. Breanna Archuleta, a single mother of three young children, received a 2018 Access in-depth analysis and the latest reports in Market Trends, encompassing Industry Reports, Consumer Behavior, Future Outlook, and Market Analysis. Moyer agrees with Williams and Hodulik -- “it’s hard, dirty work” -- and found consolidators didn’t want to do it either. The Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) recently opened its 2025 scholarship application process, offering a valuable opportunity for students pursuing a career in the collision repair industry. “The individuals being honored have demonstrated their knowledge by placing among the highest scoring automotive professionals To make sense of the shifting regulatory climate, Autobody News spoke to Bob Redding, president of The Redding Firm, a Washington, D. 6% of Autobody News is the leading regional collision repair news-focused magazine in the United States. SEE ALL POSTS. 2024: A Year of Growth and Transformation. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY Classic Collision announced the acquisition of Bowditch Collision Center, a well-regarded facility in Newport News, VA. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY Since joining Driven Brands in January 2022, Auto Glass Now has been rebranding all of the acquired locations under its name and refreshing the locations with bright, welcoming customer service lobbies and the latest tools and equipment. The collision center, previously under the ownership of Charles Barker Automotive, will begin Automotive manufacturers are falling short of consumer expectations for website modernization and organization, according to the redesigned J. New vehicle inventory reached 3. and Canada. Lucid Motors announced the production of its all-electric SUV, the Gravity, at its Arizona facility. Jerian, a veteran of the collision repair space, co-founded VIVE alongside Scott Leffler and Phil Taub to disrupt what they see as an outdated industry model. It passed the state House but died in Senate committee. The former bought the latter Aug. Steinhauer said CDK advises “dealerships to prepare for an extended recovery period. In his capacity, Redding is the head lobbyist for the Automotive Service Association (ASA). The acquisition adds to Classic Collision’s growing portfolio of multi-site collision repair facilities nationwide. The Northwest Auto Care Alliance (NWACA) is hosting a “Lunch & Learn” from noon to 1 p. So, when Hurricane Helene swept through North Carolina in late September, the shop was in the perfect place for flooding. 01% in the U. A young father from Bismarck, ND, has turned a setback into a hopeful future, thanks to the National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides program. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY Cole Strandberg, host of The Collision Vision podcast, driven by Autobody News, recently opened a new series, “End of the Single Store Generalist Shop Era,” by presenting an overview on why he thinks this is the case -- and what single shop operators can do about it, “to not only survive in the future of collision repair, but to thrive,” he said. Collision P. Industry members can submit questions and topic ideas in advance here. They were created to change the collision repair Christian Lugo, 37, of the Bronx, NY, has been charged with racketeering conspiracy and murder in connection with his leadership of a Bronx-based tow truck and auto repair company, Certified Auto, that allegedly used violence and fraud to dominate its competitors, in a federal indictment unsealed Oct. It's currently distributed monthly to over 42,000 auto body shops and related Each one-hour episode can be watched live on Autobody News’ social media channels, including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. 8 when he was presented with a reliable vehicle through the National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides program. After months of speculation about the future of Service King, a blockbuster merger with Crash Champions was announced to Service King managers on Crash Champions announced the expansion of its operations into the state of Wyoming with the acquisition of Lennox Auto Body, a longtime trusted collision repair center serving the community of Cheyenne. 29, as a vehicle for further expansion. Classic Collision announced its first acquisition of 2025: One Stop Auto, a family-owned collision repair business with locations in Yorktown and Newport News, VA. The automaker reported total deliveries of 1,789,226 vehicles for 2024, down from 1. District Judge Thomas Rice, according to the U. ” The venture is based in Florida, though Laura Gay, who started it, is usually on the road to somewhere else as a PPG announced a series of leadership transitions aimed at advancing its growth strategy and bolstering key business segments. Mize was sentenced Dec. west Digital Magazine Edition Working on cars wasn’t totally new, but learning how to remove their hood and trunk was for some. m. Autobody News spoke to Trozzo about the new EV repair estimation program and some of the misconceptions auto repairers may harbor that are contributing to unnecessary increased costs. Tim Paap’s Northwest Collision Center in St. Envest is in Virginia Beach, VA. Through that partnership, we grew to just over 100 locations. , regional manager for Hunter Engineering, stopped by The Collision Vision podcast, driven by Autobody News and hosted by Cole Strandberg, for the second episode in its “Operational Excellence: Shop Strategies for Mario Dimovski’s experience working as a 16-year-old plastic repair technician over three decades ago taught him about the importance of innovating to succeed. Arguably the most comprehensive of the bills, House Bill (HB) 5950 would The 2024 SEMA Show drew more than 2,400 exhibitors and tens of thousands of attendees, many of whom work in the collision repair industry. Clyde Morris Boulevard, Bowditch Collision Center operates in a newly renovated space equipped with state-of-the-art technology. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY CollisionClassifieds. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY The Omaha Fire Department (OFD) crews battled a four-alarm fire for nearly two hours early Jan. Cape Fear Community College (CFCC) in Wilmington, NC, raised $113,500 to support students in the automotive system technology, automotive customizing technology and collision repair and refinishing programs. -- short for Professional Repairer Education Program -- will bring a full slate of nationally recognized speakers and will continue to grow and bring New-vehicle prices rose sharply in December 2024, with average transaction prices (ATPs) reaching $49,740, according to Cox Automotive’s Kelley Blue Book. Located on J. The donations were presented in Riverside, CA, to provide newfound independence and the ability to meet daily obligations. Each Auto Glass Now location has a team of highly trained experts in auto glass repair, replacement and Advanced Maaco celebrated its top-performing franchisees Nov. 5% rise from November 2024, driven by strong sales of high-priced vehicles and luxury models. Lane, who served two years in the U. 25 million units in December 2024, nearing pre-pandemic levels of 3. With the introduction of this luxury SUV, Lucid aims to expand its footprint in the EV market, directly challenging competitors like the Tesla Model X and Rivian R1S. This life-changing gift was made possible by vehicle donor Allstate and collision repair partner Schaefer Autobody of O’Fallon, IL. Colby Eller, who co-owns the North Wilkesboro-based business with his brother, Adam, remembers the aftermath well. Aaron DeLong, HP Personalization & 3D Printing’s worldwide segment manager, is part of the task force and a member of Auto Additive’s Strategic Advisory Council, specializing in Stay informed about the latest happenings in the auto repair industry with autobody news, delivering the most current and relevant insights for your body shop business. Envest Private Equity via its Authentic Auto Body platform will close on a second acquisition within a few weeks -- call it early January -- making Authentic a true MSO, according to both companies. This category delivers expert insights and forecasts on the collision industry's trajectory, offering a comprehensive overview of current market dynamics, consumer trends, and future opportunities and challenges. Leif Hansen, founder and owner of the expansive facility, which covers 5 acres and includes 130,000 square feet, confirmed the closure, which was first reported by The Joe Hudson’s Collision Center recently celebrated a significant landmark: 250 locations. Click on the regional area of your choice or subscribe here . In his current role as director of circular and repair innovation at The Boyd Group, Dimovski oversees more than 900 collision shops in the U. As the Michigan Legislature’s 2023-24 session approaches a close, several bills that would bear on the collision repair industry still awaited a final vote as of midday Dec. SUNY Morrisville auto body technology freshmen Juliana Kucera, of Elma, NY, and Simarah Samson Davall, of Augusta, NY, Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. 13. These shops, owned by Matt Feehan, have honed their expertise over decades to address the specific challenges posed by such incidents. BodyShop Business helping to empower shop owners with the knowledge they need to run successful collision repair businesses. This expansion not only increases the company’s ability to serve a larger customer base but also integrates cutting-edge equipment As wildfires continue to devastate parts of California, some electric vehicle (EV) owners are expressing concerns about the practicality of their cars in emergency evacuations, with some even considering switching to hybrid or gasoline-powered vehicles. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY Subaru has dethroned BMW in the 2025 Consumer Reports car brand rankings, taking the top position by a slim margin of one point in the average Overall Score. “Being at the profile level, you can set up one for walk-ins, and a different one for each insurer, so giving a ton of PPG received an Innovation Award for the PPG LINQ digital ecosystem during the Automechanika Frankfurt Show in September. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recognized 19 vehicles from 11 brands with its coveted Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ awards for 2024, with 10 vehicles Collision repair technology providers told Autobody News how they are using AI to simplify, streamline and expedite insurance and repair processes. Sides, a member of the Missouri National Greensboro, NC, business owner Phil Collins was recognized by Maaco as the Multi-Shop Owner (MSO) of the Year across the whole North American network. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) announced a recall of more than 317,000 Ram trucks from model years 2017-2018 due to failures in the hydraulic control unit (HCU) that affect critical safety systems, including anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC) and traction control. "Odometer rollbacks can occur when an unscrupulous owner or seller of a car alters the miles Joe Hudson’s Collision Center recently reached a milestone with the acquisition of Cliff’s Hi-Tech Body Shop in Essex, MD, marking the MSO’s 250th location. During a recent interview with Autobody News, Tuggle shared insights into ABAT’s journey over the past year and its plans for the year ahead, including the association’s legislative priorities and potential national impact. However, many industry experts believe human intelligence (HI) will remain essential, particularly in complex decision-making, customer interactions and JDM Collision has a dozen employees. The updated requirements will raise bodily injury liability coverage from $20,000 per person/$40,000 per accident to $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident. PST Jan. Stay ahead with the Technology section, spotlighting the evolution and impact of EVs & Hybrids, Diagnostics & Calibrations, Autonomous Vehicles, and ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) in the collision repair industry. It mimicked a 2023 California state law. west Digital Magazine Edition AK · CA · HI · ID · MT NV · OR · WA · WY “It’s a huge milestone for us as a business,” VIVE CEO Vartan Jerian Jr. 22. , accusing the largest automotive services company in North America of misling The collision repair industry is poised for another year of change in 2024, according to Ryan Mandell, director of claims performance for Mitchell International. The stores, in Columbus and Pooler, are Joe Hudson’s 15th and 16th locations in the state. We’ll talk trends, culture, growth and scalability, to give actionable insights into how to elevate your business. Molodanof also serves on the California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) Advisory Group, which provides Autobody News is a free monthly publication for the owners and managers of 36,000+ collision repair shops across the country. " European manufacturers ship vehicle parts to the East Coast, and a prolonged strike could have impacted parts availability across the segment, raising prices for repair shops and Written by David Roberts, managing director of Focus Advisors. Autobody News found intrepid entrepreneurs in Southern California, Arizona, Texas, Illinois, Florida and as far-flung as Canada. Latest News. com recently debuted after a year of planning and development on both coasts, and in the fabled and ubiquitous cloud. “Our victory in April was just the beginning,” said Samuel Gallardo, an assembly line worker at Volkswagen. In Arizona, in Autobody News’ Southwest region, Robinson said HB2332 “would have legalized cruising and low-riding” -- also of course touching classic car enthusiasts. nyam qbia ktgpz liuoii flyrzwo zodvn ulzo bgrk jrpwza dfdh