Castle Coachworks boosts EV capability with four approvals
Northamptonshire-based Castle Coachworks has announced it has secured manufacturer approvals from Chery, OMODA, JAECOO and BYD.
These brands join a portfolio including Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar Land Rover, Volkswagen Group, Volvo, Polestar and Tesla, and underline the company’s commitment to investing in electric vehicle the skills, equipment and technology.
General manager Stuart White said: “Electric vehicles have changed the way the accident repair industry has to operate. The repair is no longer simply about what you can see on the outside of the vehicle. High-voltage systems, batteries, electronics, sensors and safety systems all have to be considered as part of the repair process.
“Adding four new manufacturers to our approved portfolio is a serious commitment to being prepared for that changing market. We are continuing to invest in our people, equipment and processes so that we can support the vehicles that are increasingly coming through our doors today, and will do so even more in the years ahead.”
Bodyshop manager Ellis Lennon added: “Adding four approvals is a substantial investment for a bodyshop. Each manufacturer has its own requirements, training, equipment and repair procedures, and those standards have to be maintained once the approval has been achieved.
“It’s not a case of getting the accreditation and putting the logo on the wall. We have to continually demonstrate that we have the right people, training, equipment and processes in place, and we are subject to ongoing manufacturer audits and surveys.
“That continual accountability is important. It keeps us focused on maintaining the standards expected by the manufacturers and gives our customers confidence that their vehicle is being repaired in accordance with those requirements.”
