The international relationship between Ford and I-CAR is growing stronger with breaking news that Ford-endorsed collision repair training for Ford-specific requirements in Australia will be facilitated by I-CAR Australia.
The catalyst for fast-tracking this development was the imminent arrival of the highly anticipated F-150 truck on Australian shores. The new F-150 has a high-strength, military-grade, aluminium alloy body, along with strong sales aspirations.
“Ford wants to support collision repairers and the collision industry with the very best training experiences in order to be ready, willing, and able to deal with what life throws at these beasts,” the company said.
Vehicle construction technologies are constantly changing, as are the tools and methods required to repair them. Ford says 2023 is a transformational year for the company with the addition of the electric E-Transit to the model line-up, the modular chassis for the 2022 Ranger and Everest series, and increased technology across the range.
Ford says it is vital that the collision repair industry is familiar with its repair methods to confidently work on these vehicles.
“There are exciting developments in the Ford range, and we are thrilled with our growing sales,” said Christinne Quix, Ford Collision Programs Specialist. “We want to work together with collision repairers to ensure they are comfortable with, and capable of, looking after the wellbeing of Ford owners by repairing damaged vehicles back to their pre-collision state with the use and understanding of correct Ford procedures and Genuine Ford parts.
“I-CAR are the perfect partners to help achieve this.”
Jason Trewin, COO of I-CAR, concurs. “I-CAR Australia continues its commitment to provide ongoing, up-to-date, relevant training to the entire collision repair sector. Through the international collaborative development of training programmes, we are pleased to release an entire Ford curriculum for the various roles within the modern body shop business,” he said.
“In keeping pace with the exciting engineering developments from Ford, the programmes offered will take a look at new vehicle technologies, advanced joining methods, and electric vehicle considerations.
“It’s longstanding strong industry partnerships, like the one between Ford and I-CAR, that ensure the collision repair industry is well prepared for the next generation of Ford motor vehicle before it reaches the body shop. To cater for varying learning styles, the new content will be available in a number of different platforms, including student self-paced online delivery, through to hands-on aluminium welding certification.”
The courses available from I-CAR can be located on the I-CAR website at i-car.com.au/ford-training.