Detroit Big Three OEMs welcomed at BASF Performance Group OEM Technology Meeting
Background:
Detroit’s Big Three participated in BASF’s Performance Group OEM Technology meeting, concluding August 22, 2018. Each Performance Group attended one of four sessions held throughout the summer with General Motors, Ford Motor Company and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles.
BASF Performance Group members had a unique opportunity for open dialogue with the OEM’s collision group engineers, managers, and marketers, who discussed new technology, repairability of new vehicle models, certification programs and the future of the collision repair industry.
John Eck, Manager, collision manager of GM’s Customer Care and Aftersales, spoke about the speed at which new technology is entering the automotive marketplace and gave attendees the opportunity to learn about the new GM Collision Repair Network—just two weeks after it was announced at NACE Automechanika.
“As vehicle technology evolves, it’s more important than ever to complete proper repairs and run an efficient enterprise,” said Eck. “We put the customer at the center when we designed the GM Collision Repair Network because for them, nothing is more important than knowing they can trust in the safety and integrity of their vehicle when it leaves the repair facility.”
Each of the OEMs emphasized customer safety and discussed new vehicle model designs that influence the process for safe and proper repairs.
“BASF Performance Groups members are some of the best businesses in the country that continually look to excel as market leaders,” said Craig Seelinger, BASF Vision+ Program Manager. “These OE Technology meetings connected members with the Big 3’s top collision experts, which produced great discussions and insight for both sides, that in turn left the meetings with a common goal—proper and safe repairs following the manufacturers’ repair procedures, knowing the safety of the vehicle for its owner and family has been restored.”
“There is always something to take back from a [Performance Group] meeting, whether it’s from our discussions or my group members,” said Bob Haner, owner of Color Magic CARSTAR in Columbus, Ohio. “I will certainly bring the OEM information back and share it with my team—they will definitely learn something from what was shared.”