The IAAF Conference 2019 has highlighted the massive technology-led transformation in the global automotive industry and how every business in the independent aftermarket can take full advantage.

Addressing the sold-out conference Wendy Williamson, chief executive of IAAF highlighted how technology has dominated the topics tackled by the Federation in 2019, from the Counterfeit Parts Campaign to Cyber Security. She also outlined the work FIGIEFA was doing in securing fair digitialisation opportunities along with other technology led work on Extended Vehicle and SERMI.

Hayley Pells from Avia Garage then looked at how independent garages are ‘coping’ with technological changes, particularly given the rise of hybrid and electric vehicles, pointing out there was still time to prepare for these vehicles but stressed the need for greater engagement with industry training, recognising that many technicians do not have the correct qualifications and are therefore not in a position to service the latest vehicles on the road. She also examined the changing face of the independent garage with technology driving new services such as wheel alignment and ADAS.

Sticking with the theme of innovation and change, Andy Hamilton, CEO of Euro Car Parts called on the industry to expand its skillset so it can adapt to the changing needs of motorists and to support garages more, in order to preserve the independent aftermarket.

The message was then reinforced by the next speaker, Dean Lander from Thatcham, who delivered an engaging talk on the history and growth of advanced driver-assistance systems, again reiterating the need for garages to have greater access to ever-changing technology in order to avoid handing over all power to vehicle manufacturers.  Meanwhile, Al Preston of WhoCanFixMyCar.com explored increasing automation by garages and how this integrates further up the supply chain.

Taking a more light-hearted tone, keynote speaker, Richard Noble, captivated attendees with his personal story of how he fulfilled his life-long mission to build the world’s first supersonic car, while going on to break the land-speed record. In doing so, Noble utilised the platform he’d created to set up the largest STEM programme in the UK, directly targeting the next generation and engaging with more than 129,000 schoolchildren.

Mike Smallbone, Head of Membership Development, then provided a full round-up of the Federation’s activity throughout the year, highlighting IAAF’s commitment to addressing the issues with initiatives such as Your Car – Your Choice. The pilot project in Chesterfield was instrumental in the automotive aftermarket winning business from main dealers, as independent garages felt more confident in the greater use of OE-quality parts.