Melbourne workshop joins global network

Allpoint Automotive, in Melbourne’s inner west, has been selected as the pilot site for the Australian launch of the global NexDrive service network. Providing ‘next generation service, for next generation vehicles,’ NexDrive is being rolled out by automotive giant Genuine Parts Company (GPC), the parent company of Repco and NAPA, to assist leading independent workshops keep pace with the advancements in vehicle technology.
Industry representatives recently joined GPC executives to get first-hand insights into the NexDrive model, with a workshop tour and an opportunity to meet with key partners, including ADAS Solutions and battery supplier Infinitev.
Allpoint Proprietor, Kris Degenhardt, is excited by the opportunity to partner with GPC and align his business with a global brand and network.
“I’m always looking to evolve our business and make sure that five or 10 years from now, we are just as profitable as we are today,” Kris said. “To do so, we need to stay on top of things like driver assist technologies, telematics and new generation power trains, and NexDrive fits perfectly with what we want to achieve.”
GPC Asia Pacific Chief Executive Officer, Wayne Bryant, echoed the future focus sentiment and GPC’s commitment to the automotive industry.
“At GPC, we’re driven by a purpose to ‘Keep the World Moving’ and NexDrive, with its focus on future-proofing automotive care, is a great example. Together with NexDrive, GPC’s growing partnership with ADAS Solutions, our investments in new state-of-the-art distribution facilities and the recent acquisition of Australian Parts Group (APG) will all play a critical role in fulfilling this vision.” Wayne said.
“We are also deeply committed to keeping our world sustainable, and we see NexDrive playing a lead role in supporting workshop owners as they evolve their businesses to service a fleet powered by low emission drivetrains, and new technologies.”
NexDrive is already operating from more than 300 sites across North America and Europe, with expansion into the Australian and New Zealand market currently underway. The Australian arm will operate in conjunction with another GPC workshop partnering network in Repco Authorised Service (RAS) and according to National Manager, Peter Rogers, this will further enhance the support that RAS provides to its membership.
“NexDrive provides forward thinking workshops within our network an opportunity to gear up as advanced vehicle technology and new generation power trains penetrate the Australian Car Parc,” Peter said.
“Combining the global backing of GPC with our local expertise, we have the resources, experience, warranty support and cutting-edge digital platforms to ensure our members can offer unparalleled service to owners of the next generation of vehicles.
“And through workshops like Kris’, we are proud to be delivering a premium experience to drivers, focusing on safety, reliability, and technological expertise.”
For more information on becoming a NexDrive certified workshop, visit www.nexdrive.com.au

AAAA calls for government support
After taking part in the workshop tour and Australian launch of NexDrive, Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) Director of Government Relations and Advocacy, Lesley Yates, applauded the NexDrive initiative as an excellent example of industry working together, whilst stressing the need for ongoing government support.
“Our industry provides an essential service to the Australian public, not only in ensuring an efficient transportation system, but also saving lives and reducing our overall greenhouse emissions, both of which are being aided by sophisticated vehicle technologies,” Lesley said.
“It is therefore imperative that government supports our workshops with continued investment in vocational training and financial subsidies to assist them to gear up with charging equipment and specialised tooling.
“By coupling government initiatives with the private sector to upskill training and support programs like NexDrive, we can ensure vehicle owners continue to receive expert care, tailored to modern automotive needs, while ultimately protecting the Australian consumer’s choice of repairer by building and supporting our local independent workshops’ capabilities.”

For more information on becoming a NexDrive certified workshop, visit www.nexdrive.com.au