December 2020

A DAS technology may appear complex but new recalibration solutions means it translates into an ever-increasing revenue opportunity for garages. It is estimated that in 2020 around 40% of new vehicles have some level of ADAS, ranging from autonomous emergency braking, to lane-keep assist systems, blind-spot monitoring or adaptive headlights. It’s a complicated world that can be confusing and difficult to keep up with. “No longer the preserve of high specification premium vehicles,” said Julian Goulding, Northern Europe Marketing Manager at Delphi Technologies Aftermarket, “ADAS technology is now commonplace in new vehicles.” As always, new tech also represents a new opportunity. Garages able to adapt will thrive, while those left behind may struggle to compete. “Reliant on a litany of cameras and sensors, ADAS calibration is vital for the correct and reliable operation of modern vehicles,” continued Julian, “and the ability to carry out such work is a must. “A one-degree change in the camera position at the windscreen could mean a 1.7 metre deviation 100 meters up the road, resulting in significant misalignment. 1.7 metres may still not sound like much, but that could be the difference between the vehicle detecting oncoming hazards or not. Inaccurate data passed by sensors to the control unit can jeopardise ADAS accuracy or even its ability to function at all. You often don’t know something isn’t working until you need it, which is the which is the worst- case scenario for any safety system.” Solution It is all too easy to underestimate how frequently ADAS calibration is required. It is in fact required after any accident repairs, windscreen replacement, steering and suspension repairs or even wheel alignment. Delphi Technologies has recently launched its own solution with a calibration tool that is compatible with 31 vehicle brands, covering 146 models with radar and 284 models using cameras. Julian observed: “ADAS calibration is extremely manufacturer-sensitive, which makes it even trickier for independent garages and service centres. “This has inspired the introduction of Delphi Technologies’ CRC-150 modular solution, which brings ADAS capability within reach of the independent service sector at an affordable price. Most radar sensors require in-workshop calibration, which requires uniform working conditions and an ability to work out a vehicle’s ‘thrust axis’ from which to set-up all calibration. Diagnostic equipment, target panels and training are all required and so there is investment required for independents to offer calibration work.” Julian added: “For those garages willing to take the plunge, the return on investment is potentially vast. As we 32 AFTERMARKET DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 ADAS www.aftermarketonline.net DETECTING AN INCOMING OPPORTUNITY Garages that have the knowledge, training and equipment required to calibrate ADAS systems can take advantage of a major income stream Above: Bluetooth Pro from Absolute Alignment have discussed, many relatively minor jobs require calibration to sign-off on the work on a growing proportion of vehicles entering the independent service network. Failure to offer this service or failure to deliver it successfully, may result in loss of business to other, better- prepared competitors or customers returning with repeat faults.” Implications “ADAS has been around for a while now,” said Absolute Alignment Technical Director Chris Dear, “and most workshops are getting a handle on the implications for their own working practices. Maybe you’ve partnered with an alignment centre so they can align your cars and calibrate sensors before letting them out of the door after even minor work, or maybe you’ve invested in your own equipment such as Absolute Alignment’s Bluetooth Pro which interfaces seamlessly with many ADAS calibration systems. Whichever route is more suitable for your business, you can’t ignore the consequences of glossing over incorrect ADAS procedure.” He continued: “In our opinion it’s time for you to invest in your future and embrace a total vehicle alignment solution. It is worth noting that most of your competition doesn’t have the technology which means any suspension work done by them could have disastrous consequences on the safe action of ADAS. If you have the right kit, there’s a secondary profitable income stream helping other workshops.” What about the future? Chris had this to say: “There are more exciting innovations coming down the ADAS road. From Volvo’s proposed drink/drive prevention system to Citroen’s night vision camera, new safety systems are

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