AIC and AAAA Launch New EV Initiative to Benefit Automotive Aftermarket Industry

Are you ready to embrace the electrified future of the automotive aftermarket industry?

The Automotive Innovation Centre (AIC) and Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) have teamed up to launch a new electric vehicle (EV) initiative that aims to support the automotive aftermarket industry. With the support of the Victorian government, the AIC has acquired a Polestar 2 and a Ford F-150 Lightning to spearhead a campaign promoting the transition to EVs and providing training opportunities for technicians.

The AIC and AAAA have unveiled a new initiative aimed at supporting the automotive aftermarket industry during the transition to electric vehicles (EVs). This partnership, made possible through the support of the Victorian government’s ZEV Commercial Sector Innovation Fund, marks a significant step forward in preparing the aftermarket sector for the rise of EVs.

As a part of this initiative, the AIC has recently taken delivery of two electric vehicles: a Polestar 2 and a Ford F-150 Lightning. These vehicles will serve as the foundation for a campaign focused on promoting EV uptake among Victoria fleets. Stuart Charity, the CEO of AAAA, emphasized the importance of preparing the aftermarket industry for the increasing demand for EV servicing, repairs, and modifications.

The AIC, located in Mulgrave, Victoria, is a state-of-the-art facility that provides automotive scan data and testing services to assist aftermarket product developers. The AIC’s managing director, Luke Truskinger, highlighted the role these vehicles will play in enhancing understanding of the unique requirements of EVs for technicians and aftermarket developers.

In addition to the vehicles, the AIC has also acquired various tools and two charging stations to facilitate the assessment of EV fleet transition. This comprehensive approach ensures that the AIC is well-equipped to provide valuable insights and support to the automotive aftermarket industry.

The AAAA’s CEO, Mr Charity, emphasized the importance of having a seat at the table when it comes to EV policy development. While the focus is often on issues like pricing and charging infrastructure, it is crucial that the repair and maintenance of EVs are also considered.

Furthermore, the AIC’s expertise will enable the provision of market intelligence, education, and projections on EV adoption rates. This information will empower AAAA members to make informed decisions and effectively prepare for the future of the automotive industry.

The unveiling of this initiative took place in Mulgrave, with the Ford F-150 Lightning and Polestar 2 on display. As part of the ongoing efforts to showcase these vehicles and their capabilities, they will also be featured at the Australian Auto Aftermarket and Collision Repair Expo in Melbourne.

In conclusion, the AIC and AAAA’s new EV initiative is set to have a significant impact on the automotive aftermarket industry. By promoting EV uptake, providing training opportunities, and leveraging the expertise of the AIC, this partnership is driving the industry forward into an electrified future.

• The AIC and AAAA have launched a new EV initiative
• The partnership aims to support the automotive aftermarket industry
• The AIC has acquired a Polestar 2 and Ford F-150 Lightning as part of the campaign
• The initiative will promote EV uptake among Victoria fleets
• The AIC will provide training and testing services for aftermarket product developers
• Suppliers and modifiers can contact the AIC for access to the EVs
• Tools and charging stations have been purchased to aid the assessment of EV fleet transition
• The AAAA aims to have a voice in EV policy development
• The initiative combines expertise from the AIC to support the growing EV market

The AIC and AAAA’s new EV initiative, made possible by the support of the Victorian government, is a game-changer for the automotive aftermarket industry. With the acquisition of the Polestar 2 and Ford F-150 Lightning, along with the necessary tools and charging stations, the AIC is well-prepared to support EV training, testing, and development. This initiative not only emphasizes the importance of EV policy development but also provides valuable market intelligence and education for AAAA members. By combining expertise and resources, the AIC and AAAA are driving the industry into an electrified future.