Automotive supplier Hella has joined the Society of Motor manufactuers and Traders (SMMT), becoming the latest member of the 800-strong organisation.
The SMMT represents the automotive industry’s interest with the UK government and other regulatory bodies. Its membership includes car manufacturers and suppliers, and it has interests across all sectors of the vehicle market.
One of the SMMT’s most significant activities is its lobbying function to government and other decision makers. Hella’s decision to formally sign up comes as a result of its work raising awareness on how new technology is changing vehicles, and the wider industry. “We are a Tier One manufacturer,” said Ian Boyle, IAM Sales Director at Hella.
Hella ‘well placed’ to help’
Hella’s place in the market and its burgeoning training offering via its new Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) approved training facility, Hella Academy, means the company is well placed to provide a range of views and information to support the sector. “There are interesting discussions developing around ADAS,” said Boyle, “and around vehicle electronics and access to data. We can add a great deal of detail to this dialogue.
“We recently opened Hella Academy, where we are focusing on ADAS. The rapid pace of technological change is one of the reasons why the sector is experiencing a skills shortage. The SMMT is working with the government to look at ways to improve access to training. As members we can support this process, which will in turn help the overall sector.”
There is also the need to raise awareness on the broad importance of calibration. “Beyond ADAS, LED headlamps and glare present another potential issue. Many drivers who are having issues may not realise misalignment can cause problems. Being part of the SMMT means we can bring attention to this.”
The supplier’s membership of the SMMT was confirmed during a committee meeting at the end of April.
