often help to upgrade their equipment, especially the older machines which aren’t even computerised. “What’s proving to be a gamechanger for them is the Autel IA900WA, a combined wheel alignment and ADAS system. As well as being easy to use and portable around the workshop, its level of accuracy and reporting detail is second to none.” Iain added: “As wheel alignment and ADAS calibration go hand-in-hand, it makes complete sense to have one piece of equipment that does both jobs. And, if, as we all suspect, ADAS becomes part of the MOT check, it won’t be a nice-to-have, it’ll be a workshop essential.” Development When you are dealing with an ADAS repair, it can take a garage into unfamiliar territory, which makes having the right information more important than ever, as Mark Bristow, Technical Director at ISN Garage Assist noted: “Accident repair is a little different to replacing worn components on older vehicles. All too often it’s an unfortunate fact that a new to range vehicle is involved in an accident, but accessing the latest ADAS alignment data can be a nightmare if you don’t have the right kit – and it’s not just about keeping on top of the latest updates, which tend to be issued in batches every few months. “More and more we’re seeing the development of connected equipment and, what we call remote assistance. All new Hofmann Megaplan digital ADAS units are connected and ISN has partnered with an organisation to maintain data updates through both connectivity and remote assistance. Even if you own an older Hofmann Megaplan digital ADAS unit that’s not connected, we’re just a phone call away from being able to access the latest information you need.” Accidents It's worth remembering that ADAS has come a long way, and a basic level of ADAS systems has been a requirement on new cars for some time now. Moreover, since July 2021, the Insurance Industry Requirements (IIR) have defined the inspection, realignment and calibration requirements that need to be fulfilled where ADAS sensors will affect the operation and functionality of the vehicle, or where ADAS sensors or vehicle geometry is included within the repair, service or maintenance procedure. Mark continued: “It’s not enough to have decent ADAS calibration equipment to comply with IIR. Workshops have to have the capability to calibrate all of the ADAS cameras and sensors fitted to a vehicle, and that means having a registered IMI qualification. I guess you could sub-contract out the work to another business that’s equipped and capable, but where’s the benefit in paying a competitor to do a job and reducing your own profit margins? “IIR clearly shows that the insurance industry has acknowledged the importance of correct ADAS systems alignment, but it’s not just about repair after an accident has happened. The IIR shows that insurance companies are focused on ADAS functionality when investigating accident claims. If ADAS misalignment is deemed a contributing factor in an accident, who’s liable? How can you undertake a repair on a vehicle if it might affect ADAS functionality if you don’t have the equipment or the capability to check and adjust it?” On managing the level of investment, Mark said: “Buying a state-of-the-art ADAS calibration unit is a major investment for a garage; we appreciate it’s a big decision, so we’re always happy to demonstrate our equipment in advance of any potential sale. What’s more we’ll always provide suitable training on the operation of the digital ADAS equipment we sell and we are happy to provide access to IMI training through our preferred training provider.” For more information, visit: https://bit.ly/3SWgp9f Systems Dave Richards, Managing Director at Launch Tech UK, said: “For garages looking to capitalise on this growing market, investing in the knowledge, training, and equipment necessary for accurate ADAS calibration is imperative. Launch Tech UK offers ADAS PRO+ and ADAS Mobile tools.” He continued: “ADAS PRO+ is an ADAS calibration tool. It supports multi-directional fine tuning, including parallel, front and rear, right and left. ADAS PRO+ enables calibration of ADAS systems such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, around-view monitoring, rear collision warning, blind spot detection and night-vision system. “ADAS Mobile is a portable ADAS calibration tool which meets the demands for daily ADAS calibration in workshops and glass repair shops. The five-line laser and fine-tuning switch help to centre the device parallel to the vehicle and does so with high precision.” Dave added: “With ADAS IRR in place, repairers have clear guidelines to follow to ensure the continued functionality of ADAS systems. By investing in the knowledge, training, and equipment necessary for accurate calibration, garages can not only meet industry requirements but also position themselves as leaders in the rapidly growing market of ADAS-equipped vehicles.” For more information, visit: www.launchtech.co.uk www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2024 AFTERMARKET 37 Left: Hofmann Megaplan Digital ADAS Unit in operation
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