AAAA INTRODUCES THE AIC IN MELBOURNE
THE Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) moved into a brand-new headquarters at the end of 2019 and in doing so marked the opening of the Auto Innovations Centre (AIC). The AIC is modelled on the SEMA Garage in the USA, where members are able to access testing and data on a range of vehicles to make developing and testing new products for them simpler and more affordable.
“Our primary function is to assist the Australian automotive aftermarket companies to compete in Australia and internationally,” said AAAA chief executive, Stuart Charity, at the opening.
To be operated by the AAAA, the AIC is backed by some of the biggest names in the automotive aftermarket industry.
Four-wheel drivers will recognise the likes of ARB, Harrop, Terrain Tamer, Pedders, Redarc, Repco and Airbag Man among others, plus a number of performanceoriented companies.
The AIC facility is located in the south-east suburbs of Melbourne and a second facility will open in Adelaide in 2020. If you are wondering why Melbourne and Adelaide, these are the cities most affected by the closure of Australia’s auto-manufacturing industry and government funding for the facilities was directed to these cities.
The AIC will be able to assist AAAA member companies with things like 3D scanning of vehicles and components, testing of ESC operation for modified suspension systems and calibration of safety systems such as AEB and radar cruise control, among other things. Having the facility should make it more affordable and easier for the companies to
bring their products to market.