The HD Repair Forum says this year’s event will focus on the impact of new vehicle technology and prepare the heavy- and medium-duty collision repair industry for the ever-increasing number of electrified and ADAS-equipped vehicles.
The HD Repair Forum is scheduled for 5 to 6 April at the Hilton Fort Worth in Texas, USA. The event will feature many well-known organisations and industry experts who will help the industry adapt to the challenges facing repairers. Organisations represented include PACCAR, Rivian, I-CAR, the RV Industry Association, NGVAmerica (Natural Gas Vehicles for America) and TEXA.
According to the HD Repair Forum, conference attendees will gain valuable insight on topics such as electric, LNG and CNG vehicles, ADAS, repair safety and staffing solutions.
“Electric vehicles, alternatively fuelled vehicles, and those equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) are posing new challenges in the collision repair industry,” said the HD Repair Forum. “The challenges extend beyond repair and include concerns with safety and proper handling.
“Collision repair shop owners and managers, particularly those dealing with class five to eight vehicles, are finding their technicians and insurance partners with more questions than answers. Most are not clear, or are challenged with the required repair procedures, estimating accuracy, needs for scanning, diagnostics, calibrations and more.”