The Performance Automotive Aftermarket Association (PAAA) used the recent Autosport International to unveil its new ‘SMART’ initiative.
The professional trade body represents the interests and values of the performance tuning industry, and its campaign, which stands for Safe Modification and Responsible Tuning, looks to set a quality standard for aftermarket components and their suppliers that can be easily recognised by consumers, legislators, insurers and law-enforcement alike.
In response to the changing market and pressures applied on the industry by motor manufacturers and government legislation, the SMART campaign has been introduced to provide PAAA member companies with a mandate to support and promote safe and responsible vehicle modification and engine tuning for cars that are used on public roads.
The SMART mandate aims to bring the performance tuning industry together to focus on manufacturing and supplying products that are safe, road legal and fit-for-purpose, while continuing to offer improved performance and vehicle dynamics.
PAAA focusing on modification safety
The campaign will also emphasise to consumers the importance of carrying out modifications and tuning in a manner that is safe, legal and socially responsible, while taking into consideration the enthusiasm and passion they have for their cars.
PAAA member companies will seek to promote the campaign by displaying the SMART identity and message – whenever possible – on products, packaging, and communications. This will help to create a quality standard that will be easily recognised by the industry, allowing consumers to make an informed choice on the parts and services that they buy.
The SMART initiative launched at the show in the PAAA Member’s Area in the Engineering Section of the Autosport International show. Karl McCartney, Conservative MP for Lincoln and ardent car enthusiast, attended the stand on Thursday to lend his support for the initiative and its launch.
The SMART-modified Ford Focus RS of the Devon and Cornwall Constabulary, with its driver and YouTube star, Sergeant Owen Messenger also attended the launch, as a precursor to other forces supporting the roll out of this safer approach to car modification and tuning.
YouTube and social media sensation, George Chester-Master, of the George’s Car media Channel (now with over ONE BILLION views around his responsible car modification online message) also stopped by the stand throughout the show to lend his support, while all three guests lent their expertise and skills to two interview panels, led by TV presenter and car restorer, Paul Cowland.
For more information on the PAAA and the SMART initiative, please visit paaa.eu.com.
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