Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) have evolved from passive mitigation to active technology, from luxury to all vehicle trim levels. Systems that were once optional, such as Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), will become mandatory standard equipment in all passenger vehicles by 2029. Keeping your shop up to date is a combination of having the right tools and the knowledge to back it up.
For this installment of Ask the Expert, we spoke with Autel’s Stewart Peregrine, Senior Executive of ADAS Sales, and Eric Sponhaltz, Director of Sales. They both bring extensive industry experience and a strong understanding of ADAS technology. They have provided a concise explanation of what Autel can do for your business, keeping your customer’s vehicles functioning as they should with ADAS.
How does a shop owner know they are investing in the right equipment when considering ADAS calibrations? Does Autel offer online tools to help shops make the right purchasing decisions for their business?
Our website provides plenty of information to help businesses make these decisions. We even have dedicated sections that go over ADAS for your shop and ADAS by shop type, including clear descriptions of the equipment. We also have ROI calculators to help you see the full picture before you purchase or consider adding in-house alignment to your shop. We consider your current business model, objectives, and growth plan for the best purchasing journey to ensure you have the system that best fits your space, goals, and needs. You can submit an online request through the “Contact Our ADAS Experts” feature. Autel will guide you through the systems, visit your shop virtually to analyze your layout for what works best for your business, and connect you with an authorized distributor.
Can you explain the differences between the Autel ADAS offerings?
The MA600 is our mobile calibration frame. This is typically suited for someone on the go, like a mobile technician.
The IA800 frame comes equipped with digital measurement as the standard but can be ordered with cameras, adding an alignment check for added diagnostics, more complete and repeatable calibrations, and ease of setup and completion.
The IA900 is the ultimate shop solution on wheels. This system supports all ADAS systems as well as full four-wheel alignment capability, not just alignment inspections. Currently, this is our most advanced calibration frame, built with automated robotic arms that optically track, self-level, and do not require any physical measurement for frame placement.
We are happy to announce our newest option, the IA700. This camera-based modular unit can be broken down into five pieces, allowing a level of portability never offered with an optic-based system. From a price standpoint, it is considered an entry-level unit, adding alignment pre-check and calibrations while on the go.
Is training included with the purchase of Autel ADAS equipment?Autel offers training with optic (camera-based) systems and all system packages with purchases through authorized distributors with a training agreement. Autel also has Autel Training Academy locations in Long Island, New York, and St. Louis, Missouri, where we offer a monthly two-day training. We are also adding more regional training opportunities. At times, one day is never enough, especially if you are seeing it for the very first time. It is important that you set aside time, free of distractions, to benefit the most from your investment.
How does Autel streamline the ADAS workflow to increase profit?
The workflow will be influenced by the ADAS system or package you buy. As you move up in package offerings, there are added benefits like automation and built-in efficiency through tablet and frame pairing. The more you move up, the more efficient the process. Camera systems increase profits dramatically because they can be done faster and more efficiently while minimizing human error. It also enhances the operation by adding a new revenue stream with alignment checks, tire tread depth, four-wheel alignments, etc. All of these features reduce the error-based failed and incorrectly performed calibrations.
If a shop started with an Autel ADAS (LDW) Lane Departure Warning Package, could it purchase additional equipment for radar, lidar, and 360-degree camera calibrations later?
Yes, there are different packages that you can purchase to build up your existing system. Autel also offers individual units like the Mopar® Radar Plate as an example. New targets are always available as manufacturers continue to release systems with new target board requirements, keeping your system up to date at all times.
Is Autel ADAS calibration software limited to specific vehicle brands or ADAS systems?
Autel currently has 99% coverage, which is the most comprehensive coverage in the market.
What technical and equipment support does Autel provide?
Support is offered through multiple avenues, starting with our on-site trainers. Shops tend to build relationships with our trainers and, through their travels, manage to maintain communication with shops. We also have an internal tech support team that can help you get out of a jam and log into your tool remotely to determine what your problem is, including setup, environment, or communication.
Autel’s comprehensive website is a click away, offering access to shop and vehicle information, downloadable content, and videos to help your shop be confident and prepared for ADAS.
