The Auto Innovation Centre is a centre of excellence for the automotive industry

The Auto Innovation Centre (AIC) will become a new Zero and Low Emission Vehicle (ZLEV) hub, supporting the vehicle evolution within the aftermarket manufacturing, service, repair and modification sectors.
The AIC was awarded a grant by the Victorian Government as part of its Zero Emission Vehicles Commercial Sector Innovation Fund. 
Working closely with the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), the grant will allow the AIC to break down barriers for aftermarket product manufacturers to ensure modified ZLEVs remain fit for purpose, and provide automotive technicians with opportunities to be upskilled on ZLEV technology. 
Both initiatives are designed to support consumers to access safe, reliable and affordable ZLEV aftermarket parts, servicing and repair.
The AIC enables aftermarket companies to
fast-track product development through vehicle and product level testing and 3D scanning and owns a fleet of vehicles and a modern, well-equipped workshop and training facility.   
“The AIC is uniquely placed to support
the automotive industry’s uptake of Zero Emission Vehicles given our existing role supporting
the aftermarket with testing services, and our facility built with automotive training and development in mind,” AIC Managing Director, Luke Truskinger, said.
“The AIC will be investing in ZLEVs, charging infrastructure and specialised ZLEV tools and equipment to be at the forefront of this important evolution for the automotive industry.
“The AIC will become a hub for aftermarket companies wishing to develop new products for these vehicles, and become a key training facility for technicians to gain the specialist knowledge required to repair and maintain ZLEVs.”
The AAAA is the independent national body responsible for the aftermarket industry, which includes vehicle service and repairers, as well as product manufacturers.
ZLEVs are becoming an area of increased
focus for the association and the aftermarket industry, which comprises over 50,000 businesses and contributes $25 Billion to the economy annually.
“The AAAA actively monitors ZLEV take-up rates and barriers to ensure as an industry we are able to respond to the challenges of this emerging sector,” AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said.
“It is our role to support our sector to develop and fulfill important new industry responsibilities in relation to the growing segment of ZLEVs within the automotive industry.”
The Auto Innovation Centre’s new ZLEV capability will come online in early 2023.
The AAAA says it will work closely with the AIC to develop and facilitate education and training programs to fast-track the support of this vehicle evolution for the automotive industry. 
The AIC a cutting-edge facility for the automotive aftermarket. The centre of excellence is increasing capability of automotive companies and aiding in new product development for local and export markets. Utilising the latest technology and equipment and providing crucial data and testing services, the AIC is transforming the automotive aftermarket industry.

For more information about the AIC, visit www.autoic.com.au