Tag: Coronavirus
Rosava suspends production until 24 April
Ukranian tyre maker Rosava has temporarily stopped production at both its production sites as part of efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus. It intends to halt production until 24 April. The company says shipments of products will continue from its warehouses as orders are received.
Ronal Group temporarily stops production
Demand for new cars has dropped as the COVID-19 pandemic spreads, and vehicle manufacturers have adjusted their production accordingly. Their suppliers have too, and alloy wheel manufacturer Ronal Group is the latest company to announce a temporary shutdown of its facilities. Deliveries of products will continue from existing stocks.
Tires & Rubber show postponed – but only for 2 months
The Tires & Rubber 2020 exhibition in Moscow has been rescheduled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Organiser Expocentre reports that the decision not to go ahead with the show between 24 and 27 April was taken after restrictions were announced by federal and city authorities.
Brembo donates 1 million euros to Covid-19 research
Brake manufacturer Brembo has decided to donate 1 million euros to three centres of excellence in Bergamo, namely the Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, the Fondazione per la Ricerca Ospedale di Bergamo (FROM) foundation and the Mario Negri Institute, which are working in the region hardest hit by the Covid-19 pandemic, combining clinical and pharmacological research.
6-month MOT extension causes huge challenges, says IAAF
The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) has said the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency’s (DVSA) decision to extend MOTs for a six-month period causes “huge challenges” for the sector, arguing that the industry needs to ensure vehicles continue to be kept safe in these challenging times.
IGA urges government to provide independent garages business rates relief
Today, the Independent Garage Association (IGA) wrote to Robert Jenrick MP, secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, urging him to provide independent garages business rates relief.
Comma conducts snap survey of workshops
As the UK enters its second week of the Coronavirus restrictions on movement and social distancing, in a poll undertaken for leading aftermarket lubricant brand, Comma, workshops revealed how they’re feeling and coping in the current situation.
‘Nobody will be laid off – if need be I’ll waive my salary’ – Liqui Moly MD
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, German oil and additive specialist Liqui Moly’s managing director Ernst Prost has promised employees that “nobody will be laid off. If need be, I’ll waive my salary.”
TechMan: ‘business as usual’ for customers during Coronavirus restrictions
TechMan is advising its customers that it will be continuing to provide services and support for its garage management system whilst these unprecedented restrictions are in place. Individual garages are evaluating their own position and capabilities during this time in order to understand the best next steps for their businesses and how they can operate whilst adhering to the new social distancing instructions advised by government.
Safety is paramount – a garage view
Avia Autos remains open for those requiring essential travel, as it continues to offer needed services, such as MOTs and essential repairs. Hayley Pells, the garage’s proprietor, is encouraging garages and workshops to stay open to help support these customers.
Schaeffler announces date for Repxpert Academy LIVE at Blackpool and The Fylde College
Schaeffler is currently accepting registrations for the next Repxpert Academy LIVE event, due to be held at Blackpool and The Fylde College on Saturday 20 June.
NFDA seeks clarification on Job Retention Scheme
On 27 March, National Franchised Dealers Association wrote to Kemi Badenoch MP, exchequer secretary to the Treasury, to seek clarifications on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, following the release of further details which have created confusion among employers. “We urge the Government to clarify its guidance on the Job Retention Scheme as the latest information is creating uncertainty in the sector”, said Sue Robinson, director of the NFDA.
Goodyear’s sentiments slide in Q4 2019 due to challenging environment – GlobalData
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.’s (Goodyear) sentiments declined in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2019 (Quarter ending December 31, 2019) compared to Q3 2019, due to the automotive industry’s challenging environment and distributor concerns, says data and analytics company GlobalData.
MOT exemption begins today
Effective today (30 March 2020) all cars, vans and motorcycles in the UK will be granted a 6-month MOT exemption. Drivers will still be required to keep their vehicles “roadworthy and safe to drive”. If motorist don’t keep their vehicles up to scratch, fines of up to £2,500, drive licence points and driving bans remain in place as penalties for those convicted.
Mercedes AMG F1 team producing CPAP breathing aids to help Covid-19 patients
Following government calls for automotive manufacturers to assist with ventilator production during the Covid-19 crisis, the Mercedes AMG F1 team has developed a breathing aid designed to help keep patients out of intensive care. The device was adapted by mechanical engineers at UCL and clinicians at UCLH working with Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains (Mercedes-AMG HPP) and has been approved for use in the NHS.