Vehicle Revolution Continued
much lower speed impact due to the in- tervention of the advanced electronics, and the vehicle is now being repaired. Less total losses and more repairs equals more opportunities to sell parts, but the potential reductions in the supply of parts has to be factored in and is one area where the smartest and most agile of vehicle recyclers will be proficient.
Vehicle Design and Build Not that many years ago vehicle bod-
ies were made of mild steel, a metal that could be cut and welded, panel beaten and painted and still retain its strength and design characteristics. Vehicles are now made of a multitude of advanced metals and composites making vehicle repair much more technical and spe- cialized. Many manufacturers now use
aluminum for vehicle bodies, because it is light and strong.
As an example, the latest Range Rover is nearly half a ton lighter than the previ- ous model due to the switch to all alumi- num body; but it now has 17 different riv- ets used in its construction, with a total of 3,722 rivets in each body and 187 yards of bonding material. This illustrates the complexity of the body structure and in- dicates the level of skills, knowledge and tools required to complete a repair that maintains the integrity of the vehicle and ensures that it performs as the designer intended in the event of another impact. I believe that as technology in motor vehicle advances there will be change in the salvage marketplace due to the spe- cialist knowledge required to complete repairs to these vehicles, knowledge that
must be underpinned by access to vehi- cle data and researched repair methods, specialized tools and equipment, certi- fied parts and accredited technicians. Smart vehicle recyclers will spend time researching and learning about all this new technology, searching for the op- portunities this will bring them, and then planning, investing and implementing changes into their business model that keep them at the forefront of the indus- try, leading and nurturing talented em- ployees, giving great service to insurers, repairers and customers alike. For more on Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles, visit
www.afdc.energy.gov/vehicles/how-do-fuel- cell-electric-cars-work.
Andy Latham is Managing Director of Salvage Wire and Chair of the Technical Advisory Committee of the ARA. Andy’s desire is to highlight the professionalism in the vehicle recycling industry, increase
knowledge and understanding, and keep everyone safe, ethical and profitable.
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July-August 2018 • AUTOMOTIVE RECYCLING
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