2024 AUSTRALIAN AUTO AFTERMARKET INNOVATION AWARDS

AAAA Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product – Tools and Equipment

The competition for the AAAA Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product – Tools and Equipment award was exceptionally close with eight entries in total from seven AAAA members. In this issue, we take a look at the entrants who vied for this award including the winning CoolDrive Auto Parts Powerduction 37LG.
For more on the awards, visit www.aftermarketawards.com.au

WINNER – CoolDrive Auto Parts, GYS Powerduction 37LG
Utilising advanced induction heating technology, this tool swiftly heats the core of metal components, making it ideal for various mechanical tasks on vehicles, including car bodywork and general maintenance. Unlike traditional methods, induction heating precisely targets ferrous materials without affecting nearby rubber or plastic components, ensuring a risk-free operation environment. Additionally, the absence of gas or flames enhances workplace safety. The GYS Powerduction range offers eight distinct products, each tailored to different power levels to meet various automotive repair needs. Among the Powerduction line-up, CoolDrive Auto Parts says the 37LG model stands out as the optimal choice for mechanics in the automotive aftermarket. Weighing just 15 kg and powered by a single-phase, 230 V supply, CoolDrive says the 37LG strikes a perfect balance between power and portability.
For more information, visit www.cooldrive.com.au

Alemlube, Premium Big Mumma Workshop Fan
Workshop employees deserve to be comfortable in the workplace during the summer months and are far more productive when the workshop temperature is at an acceptable temp level and with good ventilation and air flow. Alemlube’s high velocity, low speed Big Mumma fans are available in four sizes to suit different requirements and are said to be essentially silent while also being space saving and featuring an elegant design. The Alemlube Automotive Premium Big Mumma workshop fan range was introduced into the automotive aftermarket sector to complete Alemlube’s offer to supply a turnkey solution to new workshop fit outs. Alemlube says it was the first Automotive workshop equipment supplier to offer this unique product range to the industry. The range is covered by a 18-month warranty.
For more information, visit www.alemlube.com.au

Alemlube, Alemlube Wheel Balancer Speed Plate Set
Alemlube says its Automotive Premium Wheel Balancer Speed Plate Set has become a must have with the growth of the SUV and 4WD market in Australia. A Speed Plate works by mounting the wheel by the wheel stud pattern with pins on the Speed Plate, mounting and centering the wheel perfectly and as it will be mounted on the vehicle. Alemlube’s Speed Plate set consists of a three piece set which covers all PCDs (Pitch/Circle/Diameter) and is suitable for most balancers with a 40mm shaft. An optional wall mount board is available to keep your kit in easy reach and in one place. Alemlube says the fast, accurate results will save your business time in labour and reduce the waste of costly wheel weights.
For more information, visit www.alemlube.com.au

Club Assist, Club Assist Mobile EV Charging Solution
The Club Assist mobile EV charging solution tops-up a stranded EV with enough charge to either get to their destination or a local recharge station. In just 15 minutes, it can put approximately 10-15 kilometres of range into a typical EV. Comprising batteries, an inverter, a control system and charging cable, the device delivers this top-up service for EV drivers. The solution is scalable for different operational requirements. A popular configuration carries a total of 60 kilometres of electric range, enabling multiple rescues throughout the day. The modular battery design can be expanded for increased range to meet varying needs or frequent usage scenarios, or even reduced if a lower weight solution is required. It also enables onboard recharging while a roadside service vehicle is traveling between jobs.
For more information, visit www.clubassist.com.au

Hot Wire, Midtronics MVT Series Battery Testers
The MVT Series has been designed to increase preventative maintenance battery testing. Hot Wire says the MVT Series simplifies the user experience and ensures affordability for service shops. Moreover, its connectivity enables remote management of preventative maintenance initiatives. One of the key innovations of the MVT Series is its integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, which optimises battery test algorithms for connected tools. This AI-driven approach streamlines the testing process, reducing the likelihood of interruptions and inaccuracies. Additionally, the MVT Series measures crucial metrics such as cold cranking amps (CCA) and voltage instantly upon connection, further expediting the testing process. The MVT Series also addresses common barriers encountered during battery testing, such as the challenge of diagnosing discharged batteries and mitigating system noise.
For more information, visit www.hotwire.com.au

Milwaukee Tool – M12 FUEL Insider Extended Reach Pass-Through Rachet with Insert Accessories
Milwaukee Tool says the M12 FUEL INSIDER Extended Reach Pass-Through Ratchet with Insert Accessories is a solution which reinvents the traditional ratchet. The low-profile head design allows compatible sockets and adapters to insert directly into the tool and the INSIDER Pass-Through Ratchet is said to deliver maximum versatility and access in tight spaces. The extended paddle switch allows users to reach deep into the engine bay and manoeuvre the tool into multiple grip positions and the INSIDER delivers a Max torque of up to 81.3Nm and 350 RPM to remove stubborn fasteners. The provided INSIDER Extended Reach Pass-Through Ratchet Sockets (8-19, and 21mm), 1/4” and 3/8” anvil adapters and 1/4” Hex bit adapter can tackle any job in the shop.
For more information, visit www.milwaukeetool.com.au

Projecta, Intelli-Start Industrial Jump Starters
Brown & Watson International says its Projecta Intelli-Start Industrial Jump Starters (IS3000 and IS5000) are setting new and higher standards for safety, reliability, durability, and performance. The patented Rapid Recharge Technology (RRT) allows the starters to autonomously recharge themselves after jump-starting a vehicle. The jump starters’ durability is said to be guaranteed by its workshop-tough housing, while the lightweight design and mountable docking station further enhance convenience and accessibility. The jump starter’s versatility is demonstrated by its ability to start virtually any vehicle, and with the incorporation of reverse polarity protection, temperature protection, and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, Brown & Watson International says it has also set a new benchmark for safety in the category while being backed by a “market leading” two-year warranty.
For more information, visit www.projecta.com.au

Whiteline, Track Day Products
Whiteline has created a bespoke range of track day products. By integrating precision-engineered retractable string lines and rulers into a compact, durable case, the String Wheel Aligner Kit makes professional-grade alignment accessible to all. Meanwhile, the Universal Camber Gauge is a versatile, easy-to-use tool capable of delivering high-precision measurements across a range of wheel sizes. It features a powder-coated steel frame and adjustable pins ensuring durability and adaptability and its magnetic digital gauge, with a data hold function, offers accuracy and ease of use in one package. Finally, Whiteline’s Tyre Pressure Gauge has been designed to combine precision with ease of use. Features include a 0-60PSI range, 0.5 LB increments, and a user-friendly deflate button, while the protective rubber surround ensures durability.
For more information, visit www.whiteline.com.au