SAN DIEGO, Calif. – An in-depth exploration of the factors that drive hybrid repair costs is currently featured in the Winter 2009 volume Audatex Directions, an industry trends publication from Audatex North America Inc. Audatex vehicle and repair data shows that, on average in 2008, the Toyota Prius cost 8.4 percent more to repair than gasoline-powered economy imports, while hybrid vehicles that have gasoline counterparts averaged 3.8 percent more to repair than their counterparts.
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Audatex data shows that design changes made by manufacturers in efforts to reduce hybrid vehicle weight or better accommodate the hybrid system can lead to cost increases in excess of $100 per part. Such modifications include dual-scroll air-conditioning compressors and radiators to support the hybrid system, as well as the incorporation of aluminum hoods and fenders, aluminum bumper rails, modified airbag control modules, and redesigned grills and head lamp/tail lamp assemblies. These subtle design differences can result in higher part prices, repair costs and limited alternative-part availability.
Also examined in Audatex Directions is the economy’s impact on new vehicle sales and actual cash values. Audatex data reveals that from September to November 2008, actual cash values declined by 7.3 percent in just two months to a level that was down 5.9 percent compared to November 2007. Luxury supreme vehicles, full-size pickup trucks and large SUVs suffered the greatest declines in value.
Because efficient business processes are imperative in 2009, a new series of articles on Lean Six Sigma for collision repair is being introduced in this edition. The series outlines how proven Lean methodologies can help improve shop productivity, customer satisfaction and business-growth potential.
The publication is available for download at http://audatex.us/thinktank.aspx and will also be delivered electronically to the company’s North American customers. A limited number of printed copies are available.
