The involvement of CoolDrive in the racing scene provides a number of unique benefits

CoolDrive Auto Parts recently held a successful technical training session at the iconic Bathurst 12 Hour, bringing together industry professionals for an in-depth, hands-on training experience, complemented by GT racing action.
Supported by Bosch and Capricorn, the technical training event was held over three days from 31 January to 2 February with attendees able to advance their skills and knowledge of the latest vehicle system technologies.
Key focus areas included the critical importance of Pass-Thru technology for modern automotive workshops, practical applications of Bosch ESi[Tronic] software, advanced oscilloscope training, and techniques for diagnosing and managing common rail diesel (CRD), gasoline direct injection (GDI) engines, as well as hybrid and EV drivelines.
The event featured an impressive line-up of technical experts, including CoolDrive Technical Trainer, Clint Flower; CoolDrive Tools and Equipment Product Manager, Sumin Kim; and Senior Bosch Technical Trainer, Darren Todd; who all shared their extensive knowledge and expertise with the attendees.
Participants also enjoyed exclusive access to the CoolDrive Auto Parts and Australian Automotive Service Dealers Network (AASDN East Coast) Pit Garage Suite, offering a premium setting for networking and viewing the Bathurst 12 Hour race on the Sunday.
Further exclusive racing action included behind the scenes paddock tours, and exclusive meet-and-greet sessions with team mechanics and drivers.
“Participants of the Bathurst 12 Hour Specialist Training Event were unanimous in their praise, with many describing the training content as nothing short of brilliant,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Category Manager – Tools and Equipment, Matthew Douglass, said.
“The depth of knowledge demonstrated by our expert trainers was frequently highlighted as both highly beneficial and immediately applicable. Attendees walked away not only with valuable new skills but also with a clear vision for implementing positive change within their own workshops.
“The event’s engaging and hands-on approach to learning was a major benefit, and many participants expressed eagerness to put the advanced tools and techniques they learned into practice.
“This year’s session builds on the success of our 2022 Bathurst and Sandown events and reaffirms CoolDrive’s ongoing commitment to providing top-tier technical training. We’re excited to continue offering these valuable technical training opportunities in 2025 and beyond.”
CoolDrive’s motorsport partnerships, particularly through its BRT (Blanchard Racing Team) and Racer Industries associations, are instrumental in enhancing its technical training activities.
“These partnerships offer unique behind-the-scenes access at these training events, where participants can delve into the intricacies of high-performance racing,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Chief Operating Officer, Tim Blanchard, said.
“This exposure allows CoolDrive to share its passion for motorsport with its customers, thereby enriching the technical training experience by introducing advanced automotive technologies and methodologies directly from the racing world.
“Further, having access to prestigious motorsport events, such as the Bathurst 12 Hour and Sandown Supercars rounds, significantly advances CoolDrive’s technical training offerings.
“These events provide a unique perspective, distinct from the conventional automotive workshop.
“By immersing trainees in the high-pressure and high-stakes environment of professional motorsport, these events offer unparalleled insight into advanced automotive technologies, teamwork, and problem-solving strategies that are crucial in the high-speed world of motorsport.
“This exposure to a different side of the automotive industry enhances the learning experience and broadens the skill set of participants.”
For 2025, BRT has entered two cars in the 2025 Supercars Championship season with its #3 CoolDrive Racing and #7 Snowy River Racing Mustangs for Aaron Love and James Courtney and is also participating in the Super2 category with Bailey Sweeny.
BRT will partner with various aftermarket suppliers for 2025, such as Snowy River Caravans, Dayco, Bosch, LIQUI MOLY, Loctite, Sakura, SP Tools, Tycab. Koyorad, Aerpro, PPG, Bremtec Brakes and Sparco.
“These partnerships promise to grant exclusive access and benefits that can be leveraged to support customers of our partners, offering partnership opportunities with BRT, and enabling engaging marketing and activation opportunities,” Tim said.
“Additionally, CoolDrive’s collaboration with BRT offers budding automotive apprentices exceptional opportunities to experience the racing side of the industry firsthand, as exemplified by BRT inviting Australia’s WorldSkills representative, Ross Colquhoun, to experience life as part of a Supercars team at the Sydney Supercars round.
“Throughout the week, Ross was not only a spectator but also a pivotal working member of the crew in the pit garage, dedicating his focus to the intricacies of both the BRT Supercars and Super2 Supercars.
“Ross’s involvement provided him with a firsthand glimpse into the electrifying realm of professional motorsport, offering him an all-access pass to the heart of BRT’s operations. While there, he delved into the meticulous precision and technical expertise that define motorsport.”
CoolDrive also provides rare behind-the-scenes access to its auto parts trade customers, enriching their knowledge and understanding of high-performance automotive systems.
“Inviting trade customers to local Supercars rounds and VIP experiences with BRT, as well as featuring the CoolDrive Racing Supercar at trade nights, allows customers to get up close with these high performance race machines, further linking the adrenaline-filled world of motorsport with daily automotive service and repair operations,” Tim said.
“This unique blend not only fosters a deeper appreciation and understanding of motorsport within CoolDrive’s customer base but also showcases the cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions that can be applied in the aftermarket sector.”
CoolDrive will host further technical training sessions across Australia and New Zealand in 2025, with the timetable and information to be announced shortly.

For further information on CoolDrive Auto Parts, please visit www.cooldrive.com.au