March 2020

44 AFTERMARKET MARCH 2020 IGNITION www.aftermarketonline.net T he push towards improving the environmental impact of the car parc is having an impact on most vehicle systems, and ignition systems have their part to play. Along with the different requirements of hybrids, more conventional systems are evolving to provide a range of benefits. Properly maintained ignition systems help towards better fuel consumption, as well as lower emissions. What to do and where to turn when there is a problem to solve though? Choice is not an issue, with many options available. For example, HELLA has greatly increased the size of its ignition range since its launch, according to Senior Head of Marketing and Communications Helen Goldingay: “As ignition and engine management is such an important category, HELLA continually adds more references, which has more than tripled since its inception. HELLA offers 340 ignition coil references covering BMW, Ford, Vauxhall and Volvo, the recently expanded range now also includes the BMW Roadster and Mini. In addition, HELLA’s ignition coils and modules are OE on around130 million vehicles across Europe.” Helen continued: “Ignition coils and modules have to operate in an arduous working environment where they are subject to high electrical, mechanical, thermal and chemical stress. Consequently, they need to be manufactured to the strictest standards, using the highest quality materials, in order to work perfectly and over a long life cycle. Insufficient output voltage or energy will cause misfiring and incomplete fuel combustion in the cylinder, which can increase the vehicle’s fuel consumption, exhaust emissions and damage its catalytic converter. “As a result, all HELLA ignition coils and modules are manufactured to OE specifications using high quality, high temperature and high vibration resistant materials; thereby providing the optimum ignition voltage and spark energy to deliver the power output and fuel consumption returns demanded by vehicle manufacturers.” Collaboration is key according to Helen: “As vehicles continue to change, we work with vehicle manufacturers to develop the technology needed. Ignition and engine management is such a crucial element for the correct running of the engine, so to fully assist workshops we transfer this OE knowledge and technology to ensure the aftermarket has the best offering for their customers. The fact that we’ve tripled our range since its launch is testament to our commitment and I am sure that we can continue to grow at this rate.” Availability can be an issue when the offering is so large: “This does present a challenge for motor factors, as we realise that keeping a comprehensive range in stock is sometimes difficult. We recommend keeping the most popular references on site to ensure customers can be served quickly and efficiently. HELLA UK has a 90,000 sq.ft warehouse allowing us to stock a wider range; and with direct shipment available from Germany too, factors can be assured of always having access to all products.” Above: HELLA ignition group LET’S GET IT STARTED Customers won’t get far if the ignition system lets them down: Find out how to keep them on the road with a fully serviced system