Cars are getting more complex, and workshops need more help to keep up. DRiV is responding by widening its product range and training more mechanics. The company serves two groups of customers. In the aftermarket, it offers maintenance, service, and performance-enhancing products. For vehicle makers, it supplies premium products for cars, trucks, heavy-duty and commercial vehicles, and farm, aerospace, and other industrial uses. DRiV wants to be a one-stop, bumper-to-bumper supplier. Whatever a workshop or distributor needs for a repair, it aims to have it.
Two Big Trends Ahead
At the recently concluded Automechanika Frankfurt, Mr. John Dixon, Managing Director, UK and Ireland, DRiV, told this publication that two trends will shape the aftermarket in the next five to ten years. The first is an ageing car park, which will drive volumes. The second is changing technology, including EVs and plug-in hybrids. He said these will bring more demand in areas like suspension. Internal combustion engines will still have a market for the foreseeable future, so DRiV sees plenty of opportunity there too. Keeping up with new regulations and sustainability are also key focus areas.
An OE Advantage
DRiV is a large OE manufacturer, so it is always at the front of R&D and works closely with carmakers. What it builds for the OE business can then move to the aftermarket. This keeps the company ahead of new technology. It also helps DRiV train distributors and their staff before new parts reach the market.
EV penetration is rising in almost every market, though the US has slowed a little. Mr. Dixon said some parts will not be needed in EVs. But EVs will still need suspension and braking. DRiV watches the vehicles in operation in each country. Electrification has moved faster in some regions than others, so the company plans region by region to be ready for demand.
Training the Mechanic
As cars become more technical, independent workshops need to keep up. DRiV’s answer is the ‘Garage Guru’ scheme. An industry-leading training and support platform created to address the skills gap and technician shortages facing the automotive service industry, it gives technicians the skills, training and knowledge they need to ensure quality repairs and build a stronger, more successful automotive service industry. He said, technical experts go out into the field and work with distributors and technicians. They make sure mechanics know the new technology before a vehicle arrives. If a mechanic is stuck, help is a phone call or online chat away. The company also puts QR codes on its boxes. A quick scan shows how to fit the part, torque settings, and other tips. Distributors also stock the parts, so workshops can get what they need.
Local Stock, Global Reach
DRiV has a foundation that reaches from Model T to Model E, and includes more than 30 of the best known and respected aftermarket brands, including 15 brands that are more than 100 years old. Some of the brands include Abex, Beck/Arnley, Champion, Fel-Pro, FP Diesel, Jurid, Monroe, Moog, National, Sealed Power, Speed Pro, Wagner and Walker Emissions Control. As a global company it has distribution centres across many regions. In Europe, for example, it has forward-facing centres and a central one. The mix of parts in each centre depends on local demand and the local vehicles in operation. The West Asia conflict and other geopolitical issues make things harder. Even so, it will try to keep its distributors stocked, region by region, he said.
A Growing Product Range
DRiV’s goal is to cover all parts in the vehicle. It has recently launched turbos, brake callipers, sensors, and engine management sensors. At Automechanika Frankfurt, it has launched air compressors for air suspension for the European aftermarket. It also showed its HVAC products and wiper blades, and launched the Champion brand.
The biggest chance for growth for the company lies in its wide range. Distributors get a one-stop shop. A single order can include braking, suspension, engine management, and HVAC maintenance products. “Our product categories keep growing, and that is where our biggest market penetration will come from,” he added.
