With vehicle upkeep costs reaching $1,234 annually, American drivers, led by Millennials and Generation X, are increasingly taking maintenance into their own hands, supported by expanding toolkits and online resources.Amidst the rising costs of car maintenance in the U.S., there's a noticeable shift happening—more vehicle owners are turning toward DIY, or do-it-yourself, car care. The main motivation? They aim to cut expenses while maintaining reliable vehicles. According to an announcement from GARVEE.com, the average yearly spending to keep a passenger vehicle operational reached $1,234 in 2024, marking a significant increase from previous years. This hike is mainly due to higher labor charges at repair shops—ranging from approximately $125 to $180 per hour—and dealership parts markups that can reach 60%. Consequently, many owners are opting to undertake maintenance themselves. Industry data supports this trend, showing nearly half of all car owners now perform routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, brake service, or filter replacements. This rise is facilitated by the broader availability of professional-quality tools, along with countless online tutorials and beginner-friendly diagnostic devices. Notably, Millennials and Generation X drivers are leading this movement, perhaps because of their familiarity with digital resources and preference for hands-on vehicle care. In response, GARVEE.com has expanded its product offerings to include everything from basic maintenance kits to advanced diagnostic scanners and OEM-quality parts, catering to this growing demand. The increase in DIY vehicle maintenance aligns with industry forecasts, which project the market will grow significantly, reaching $12.4 billion by 2029 with a compound annual growth rate of 7.2%. This trend offers substantial savings—estimated between $800 and $1,200 annually—compared to relying solely on professional services, provided proper procedures are followed. Nevertheless, several barriers remain. Modern vehicles' complex electronic systems require specialized knowledge and diagnostic tools, making some repairs challenging for amateurs. The initial investment in tools can be substantial, ranging from $500 to $2,000, posing a barrier for occasional DIYers. Additionally, time constraints, warranty concerns, and limited workspace—particularly in urban settings—also limit participation. External reports highlight that rising costs are driven by broader factors such as inflation, supply chain issues, and labor shortages. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that average repair expenses have increased by as much as 32% from September 2019 to September 2023. For example, automotive industry data shows that standard oil changes rose by nearly 18% in mid-2024, with some supplies like grease doubling in price due to increased demand for electric vehicle batteries. The shift toward electric vehicles further complicates maintenance, emphasizing battery care and electronic diagnostics over traditional engine repairs. Industry experts note that specialized tools and training are increasingly necessary for EV maintenance, prompting companies like GARVEE.com to offer modular, space-efficient toolkits and advanced diagnostic software tailored for these emerging needs. As vehicle technology evolves, so does the need for consumers to adapt their maintenance approaches. Despite the hurdles, the growth of DIY car maintenance offers considerable financial benefits, encouraging more owners to skip professional shops. Successful adoption depends heavily on accessible education and organization of proper tools. Studies suggest that reducing knowledge gaps could increase DIY participation by approximately 20%. Still, concerns about warranty protection and the technical complexity of modern cars persist. Efforts by manufacturers and regulators aim to promote repair rights while ensuring vehicle safety, influencing the ease of DIY repairs. Overall, the ongoing rise in maintenance costs appears to be propelling more vehicle owners toward self-service solutions. Technological advancements and increased availability of high-quality tools are making this more feasible than ever. GARVEE.com exemplifies this shift by providing comprehensive products and educational resources to support consumers in maintaining their vehicles effectively and affordably. As technology and consumer preferences continue to evolve, the DIY automotive maintenance segment is poised to play an increasingly vital role in how Americans care for their vehicles in the future. Source: Noah Wire Services

Michelin backs European Union’s new Euro 7 standards, championing real-world testing methods to accurately measure tire wear emissions and support industry-wide sustainability efforts.Michelin has come out publicly in support of the European Union’s newly adopted Euro 7 regulation, which, for the first time ever, sets limits on emissions from tire wear particles. Starting from April 2024, this regulation seeks to restrict the amount of tire wear particles released into the environment from all tires sold within Europe, with non-compliant tires being prohibited from sale. Michelin states it’s ready to meet these standards—targeting compliance for its newest tire models by 2028 and aiming for full adherence across all its automotive tire ranges by 2030. The Euro 7 implementation represents a pretty big milestone in regulation, tackling the environmental impact of tire wear particles—a pollution source that contributes roughly 500,000 metric tons annually in Europe alone. This move shows how environmental concerns are gaining ground alongside industrial needs. As Florent Menegaux, Michelin’s chairman, pointed out, there's a real challenge here: balancing innovation and strict environmental rules without crushing responsible manufacturers under undue burdens. A key factor in the success of this regulation hinges on the adoption of a solid, reliable method for testing and measuring emissions. Currently, there are two methods under consideration: real-world on-road testing and lab-based drum testing. Michelin, along with the wider European car industry, strongly favors the real-world approach, which measures emissions in grams per kilometer, adjusted for load—this method has been developed quite transparently over the last six years. And it’s already been endorsed by Germany’s ADAC, a well-known authority for rigorous automotive testing. This technique is praised for providing consistent and representative results that closely match the data manufacturers report. On the flip side, the lab-based drum test is still a work in progress. It’s viewed cautiously—mainly because its parameters aren’t fully defined, and there’s a concern about transparency and possible manipulation. Interestingly enough, studies have shown significant discrepancies between these two testing methods; results for the same tire can differ in about 28% of cases. For instance, a tire that might fail emissions under on-road testing could still pass under the lab method—highlighting the risks of adopting a less mature testing approach prematurely. And in fact, a study by ADAC in June 2025 agreed that the drum method isn’t quite reliable enough yet for immediate regulatory use. Michelin has urged regulators to immediately endorse the real-world testing approach, citing the risks—economically and environmentally—of delaying action. The company also calls for further research to refine a complementary laboratory method. This stance underlines Michelin’s commitment to both responsible environmental practices and maintaining industry integrity. Demonstrating its leadership in this area, Michelin has already been recognized by ADAC for its efforts to reduce tire wear particle emissions. Independent studies have found that Michelin tires emit about 26% fewer particles than the average of other premium brands—reflecting a long-standing focus on innovation and sustainability. Between 2015 and 2020, Michelin managed to cut tire wear emissions by around 5%, part of over two decades of ongoing efforts to reduce abrasion and lessen environmental impact. To push the boundaries further, Michelin developed the 'SAMPLE' system—a sophisticated particle analysis tool capable of capturing, sorting, counting, and characterizing tire wear particles with impressive precision. This technology supports the push for more accurate emission measurements across the industry and has been shared with the European Tyre & Rubber Manufacturers’ Association (ETRMA) to aid in meeting the Euro 7 standards. Meanwhile, in the US, developments are quite similar—industry groups are welcoming legislative steps aimed at promoting environmental responsibility without imposing crushing costs on manufacturing plants. It all points to a broader, global trend of trying to balance regulatory demands with the sustainability goals of the industry. All of this, of course, positions Michelin as a key player in shaping the evolving standards for environmental responsibility in the automotive aftermarket. Their proactive approach—through regulatory engagement and cutting-edge technology—benefits not just manufacturers but also distributors, repair workshops, and fleet operators alike. References: -[1] Tire Technology International -[2] Michelin’s environmental achievements -[3] Action plans for emission reductions -[4] Further details on testing methods -[5] Michelin’s SAMPLE system info -[6] US legislative context -[7] Official regulation coverage Source: Noah Wire Services

Upway's comprehensive approach to refurbishing used e-bikes combines rigorous inspections, expert repairs, and battery reconditioning, setting new standards for quality and reliability in the secondary micromobility market.At Upway, the process of refurbishing used e-bikes is pretty meticulous, really. It’s all about making sure each bike is safe, looks good, and lasts well before they put it back out on the market. Central to their method is a pretty solid certification system, beginning with a thorough 50-point inspection that checks every major part of the bike. After that, skilled mechanics jump in to do any necessary repairs—whether it’s mechanical issues or electrical system concerns—to bring each bike up to a high standard. Important electrical bits like displays, sensors, and lights are either refurbished or swapped out altogether, and batteries are tested to ensure they hold at least 80% of their original capacity. Batteries that don’t make the cut—meaning they fall below that 80% threshold—get reconditioned or completely replaced. Once the repairs are done, every e-bike gets a deep clean and a final quality check. And to top it off, they offer a one-year warranty, which really gives buyers some peace of mind knowing they’re getting a reliable product. Now, the size of these refurbishment facilities—like the ones Upway uses—is pretty impressive. They operate large warehouses where they can keep everything running smoothly. Keeping repairs, inventory, and shipping all under one roof helps make the whole process more efficient and gives skilled mechanics a better working environment. This kind of vertical integration isn't just about convenience—it helps ensure consistent quality and quicker turnaround times for getting these bikes back into the hands of customers. The repairs they handle are pretty varied, too. Common issues include mechanical fixes like adjusting brakes, tuning gear systems, replacing tyres, or servicing suspensions, but they also do a lot of electrical system refurbishments. Plus, Upway’s process tends to go beyond what's typical industry practice. For instance, many places rely on a standard 20-point inspection to identify structural issues and figure out what needs repair. At Upway, they often include firmware upgrades and even test rides as part of the process, making sure each bike functions as safely and efficiently as possible—so, you know, pretty thorough. Battery refurbishment, though, is a particularly critical part of the process. Industry experts say that testing involves pushing batteries through stress tests that simulate really tough conditions—sort of like a durability test—to make sure they’ll perform reliably over time. Refurbishing batteries usually involves rebuilding them with new cells and checking that the battery management system is still doing its job safely and effectively. Given that lithium-ion batteries can be flammable if mishandled, proper care during handling and transportation is a must. Interestingly enough, some companies even back their refurbished batteries with extended warranties—sometimes up to two years—which shows they’re confident about quality and durability. When it comes to warranties, they tend to vary depending on who you ask, but one year on refurbished e-bikes seems to be pretty standard. That warranty often covers key components like the frame, motor, controller, charger, suspension, and yes, the battery too. The one-year period strikes a good balance—it offers consumers some reassurance without overextending the company's exposure to risk, especially considering these are pre-owned bikes. Some brands or dealers might go further though, offering longer warranties based on their confidence levels or service capabilities. And of course, most warranties have exclusions—like wear and tear, misuse, or any unauthorised repairs—so maintenance by professionals is pretty important to keep that coverage in place. All in all, refurbishment centers like Upway are becoming really important players in the circular economy of micromobility. Their work helps extend the lifespan of e-bikes, giving people high-quality, more affordable alternatives to buying new. By combining thorough inspections, expert repairs, detailed battery refurbishments, and solid warranty offerings, they’re tackling some of the main challenges in the secondary e-bike market. For professionals involved in automotive or mobility sectors, understanding how these processes work could be key for integrating refurbishment solutions into broader efforts around vehicle lifecycle management and sustainable transport. It’s pretty fascinating, don’t you think? Source: Noah Wire Services

As advanced driver-assist systems become more reliant on windshield-mounted cameras, technicians face mounting challenges in ensuring precise calibration amid growing technological diversity and environmental sensitivities.In the rapidly evolving automotive industry, one area drawing increasing attention is the suite of advanced driver-assist systems, or ADAS. These systems, designed to enhance safety and convenience, heavily depend on front windshield-mounted cameras. Whether they are simple mono sensors or more complex dual-lens units, these cameras are now a significant challenge for technicians across North America. They play vital roles in features like lane keeping, adaptive cruise control, collision warnings, and emergency braking. Given the extreme sensitivity of these sensors, even minor impacts—such as from flying debris or accidental contact with the windshield—can misalign them, necessitating careful recalibration. This issue tends to intensify during busy seasons, such as summer, when increased highway activity leads to more debris encounters and windshield replacements. Sadly, many repair shops still rely on basic resets or scans that do not replace the precision required for proper calibration. Industry experts emphasize that static calibrations—performed with the vehicle stationary—must strictly adhere to established procedures and environmental conditions. Likewise, dynamic calibrations—done with the vehicle in motion—must be executed carefully, following specific manufacturer protocols. Rushing or ignoring these steps can impair system accuracy and functionality, which are crucial for maintaining safety. Environmental factors also significantly influence calibration accuracy. Proper lighting and uncluttered backgrounds are essential to prevent glare or visual interference that could disrupt sensor alignment. Technicians often mitigate these issues by repositioning vehicles or using physical barriers like cardboard to block unwanted light sources, aiming to replicate manufacturer-recommended conditions. Such measures underscore the importance of dedicated calibration environments or specialized setups to ensure optimal results. Additionally, the diversity of ADAS technologies across different vehicle brands underscores the need for updated knowledge and proper equipment. Manufacturers often provide unique calibration procedures, and staying current with these requirements is vital. Investing in certified training and OEM-approved diagnostic tools is increasingly important for technicians to perform accurate calibrations consistently. This ongoing education helps prevent errors that could compromise vehicle safety. Time and cost pressures can influence calibration practices. Nonetheless, experts strongly advise against shortcutting procedures, as proper calibration is essential for the effective operation of ADAS features. Performing pre- and post-calibration checks ensures sensors are correctly aligned, ultimately supporting the safety and reliability of these advanced systems. In summary, recalibrating windshield-mounted ADAS cameras is a complex but critical task for modern automotive service. Adhering strictly to manufacturer instructions, maintaining controlled environmental conditions, and utilizing proper training and equipment are fundamental to achieving accurate calibration. As vehicle safety technology continues to advance, these standards will only become more important. The industry’s collective focus on precision and adherence to proper procedures is essential in supporting the safety features that help protect drivers and passengers alike. Source: Noah Wire Services

The global automotive test equipment market is projected to reach nearly USD 4.79 billion by 2032, driven by stricter regulations, technological innovations in EV and ADAS testing, and regional manufacturing expansion, with significant advancements in wheel alignment and battery validation systems.The global automotive test equipment market is projected to reach approximately USD 4.79 billion by 2032, up from about USD 3.66 billion in 2025, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of roughly 3.9%. This expansion is primarily driven by increasingly strict regulations such as the Euro 7 standards in Europe and the US EPA standards anticipated by 2027, which compel automakers to adopt more sophisticated testing tools for emissions, particle tracking, and safety validation. Additionally, the rise of Over-the-Air (OTA) updates and software-defined vehicles has heightened the demand for hardware-in-the-loop (HiL) systems and cybersecurity testing, ensuring the complex software-hardware interactions in modern vehicles are thoroughly verified. Furthermore, the trend toward localized production coupled with global platform sharing is fueling the need for flexible, modular, and internationally compliant test systems. A significant segment within this market is wheel alignment testers, which are evolving from basic maintenance tools into high-precision diagnostic platforms. Modern systems employ 3D camera technology achieving angular measurement accuracy of up to 0.01 degrees and support wheelbases ranging from 1,800 to 4,200 mm, covering both passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. These advanced aligners can deliver results within 2 to 3 minutes, a substantial improvement over the 15–20 minutes required by older laser-based models. High-end models also incorporate ADAS calibration frames capable of aligning radars and cameras within a \u00b10.02-degree tolerance, making them essential for post-repair calibration tasks. This technological evolution tends to elevate the average selling price of wheel alignment testers—from under USD 10,000 for traditional laser models to USD 25,000–40,000 for 3D/ADAS-integrated systems—thus increasing the segment's market value. OEM assembly lines, particularly in Europe and North America, now mandate such advanced testers for end-of-line validation, fostering contract locking and ongoing capital expenditure. In the aftermarket, authorized service centers are consistently updating their equipment, creating steady sales opportunities. Leading global suppliers include Hunter, John Bean (part of Snap-on), Bosch, Hofmann, Corghi, Beissbarth, and Ravaglioli, while regional players like Manatec, Tech Fanatics, Icon Autocraft, and Star Electra serve in Asia-Pacific. Premium workshops tend to favor Hunter and John Bean for their precision and durability, whereas Indian OEMs and service centers often opt for more cost-effective systems from Manatec and Tech Fanatics. In terms of propulsion technologies, electric vehicle (EV) testing equipment is experiencing the fastest growth during this period. The complexity and safety demands of EV powertrains—such as high-voltage batteries, e-axles, and power electronics—drive the demand for more advanced validation systems. Unlike traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) testing, which relies on mature tools like chassis dynamometers and emission analyzers, EV testing involves specialized equipment. For example, AVL announced in 2024 the expansion of its battery validation centers in Europe, supporting over 1,000 charge-discharge cycling tests, impedance spectroscopy, and dendrite detection. Similarly, Horiba has established new laboratories focused on high-voltage safety and powertrain durability for EVs. Battery testing has become a key growth driver, with OEMs requiring abuse testing for thermal runaway at cell, module, and pack levels under various temperature conditions ranging from \u00b140\u00b0C to +80\u00b0C. Additionally, testing for e-axles has advanced with rigs capable of handling torques exceeding 10,000 Nm at high speeds, surpassing traditional ICE demands. Meanwhile, ICE testing remains primarily compliance-focused, with limited growth, indicating a plateau, whereas EV testing continues to evolve rapidly due to ongoing investments and expanding technical needs. Regionally, Asia-Pacific has become the leading market, fueled by extensive manufacturing bases and rapidly tightening regulations across China, India, Japan, and Southeast Asia. These include standards on tailpipe emissions, in-use performance, battery recycling, and local homologation, which compel automakers and suppliers to invest heavily in advanced testing solutions, including emissions analyzers, battery test rigs, hardware-in-the-loop systems, and reliability chambers capable of withstanding various environmental conditions. The region's large production volume—from manufacturers like BYD, Tata, Hyundai, Toyota, and Suzuki—coupled with a dense network of R&D centers and strategic alliances, further accelerates investments in AI-enabled automation, battery cyclers, end-of-line state-of-health testers, portable emissions measurement systems (PEMS), vibration rigs, and high-voltage safety analyzers. These efforts are oriented towards meeting diverse export standards and regional regulatory demands rather than solely focusing on EV or ICE adoption. Key players in the automotive test equipment industry include AVL (Austria), Horiba Ltd. (Japan), Robert Bosch GmbH (Germany), Hofmann, Corghi, Beissbarth, and Ravaglioli (Italy/US), along with other regional and specialized suppliers. These global companies are leading the development of innovative testing solutions aligned with the ongoing tightening of automotive regulations and technological advancements in vehicles. This market's growth is influenced by multiple factors, such as rising demand for specialized testing platforms for hybrid and EV models, more stringent regulatory standards, and technological shifts toward advanced testing methodologies. Challenges include the high costs associated with establishing sophisticated test infrastructure and the industry’s preference for in-house validation capabilities. Opportunities arise in the form of Test-as-a-Service models, cloud-integrated virtual labs, and modular test systems tailored for Tier-2 and mid-sized suppliers, which could redefine testing paradigms. However, the industry must also navigate hurdles related to diverse validation requirements across OEMs, the high complexity of ADAS and ECU testing, and a lack of standardization in battery testing protocols. References for further details are available at the original links. Source: Noah Wire Services

The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) unveils the country’s first dedicated testing facility for advanced driver assistance systems in Pune, promising to accelerate India’s automotive safety innovation and localisation efforts.The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), which functions as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Heavy Industries, recently revealed a groundbreaking Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) test city located in Takwe, close to Talegaon in Pune. This new facility, covering roughly 20 acres, is meant to mimic the varied and often complex road conditions found across India. Essentially, it provides automotive firms with a safe, controlled space to thoroughly test and validate ADAS tech that’s specifically designed for Indian roads. As per ARAI, this is actually the country’s first dedicated proving ground built solely for ADAS validation, filling a pretty critical gap in India’s automotive safety landscape and tech progress. It’s scheduled for an official debut at The ADAS Show on December 12, 2025. The event is expected to draw senior officials from government, alongside global automakers, industry experts, and tech providers. Organised by M/s Aayera, the show will showcase live demos of key ADAS features like adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, lane departure warnings, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and even traffic jam assistance. Dr. Reji Mathai, who is the Director of ARAI, stressed how crucial this test city is from a strategic standpoint. He pointed out that it offers a repeatable, safe environment that really helps manufacturers tweak and perfect driver-assistance systems before they hit the real roads—something that’s incredibly valuable. He also mentioned how government support—especially under the Ministry of Heavy Industries’ Capital Goods Scheme—has been instrumental in funding the modular infrastructure, which is vital for ADAS testing and validation. In the past, industry players at ADAS Shows hosted at the International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) have included major OEMs like Honda, BMW, Mahindra, Tata Motors, Maruti Suzuki, alongside international suppliers such as Bosch, ZF, Valeo, and NXP. Moving into ARAI’s new facility signals a significant shift in India’s automotive testing scene. It reflects both growing domestic and overseas interest in improving vehicle safety standards and boosting indigenous tech development. The Takwe test city isn’t just for large manufacturers, though—it's also meant to encourage startups working on autonomous vehicles and driver assistance tech to innovate and test their ideas. Aside from ADAS, ARAI is also expanding its capabilities with plans to set up a hydrogen cylinder testing facility nearby, on the larger 110-acre Takwe campus. This step aligns with what India’s automotive future looks like—focusing on environment-friendly solutions, hydrogen vehicles, and autonomous testing. The new hydrogen testing station has already received the necessary environmental clearances, turning it into a concrete example of ARAI’s commitment to supporting testing, research, and consultancy services for emerging automotive technologies. Located about 25 km from Pune Airport, the Takwe site complements ARAI's existing high-tech labs and testing setups, which are designed to meet the demanding needs of modern automotive engineering. This broad, comprehensive approach underlines ARAI’s vital role in India's automotive research and safety ecosystem. It basically helps the local industry stay up to date with global advances in vehicle automation and safety standards. The launch of this ADAS testing city couldn’t be more timely. As India’s regulatory focus sharpens around vehicle safety and increasingly adopting advanced tech, this facility offers a dedicated space to simulate India’s diverse roads and traffic conditions. In doing so, ARAI is positioning India to become a notable player in the global market for automotive safety and autonomous vehicle innovation. References: - Paragraph 1 – 1, 2, 3, 5 - Paragraph 2 – 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 - Paragraph 3 – 1, 2, 5 - Paragraph 4 – 6 - Paragraph 5 – 7, 1 - Paragraph 6 – 1, 2, 3, 5 Source: Noah Wire Services