INDUSTRY NEWS
The evolution of vehicles has made advanced driver assistance systems( ADAS) increasingly vital to improving road safety and the overall driving experience.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems( ADAS) are transforming the automotive industry. These systems use a network of cameras, sensors, and control units to offer features like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and traffic sign recognition.
Juan Hanekom, National Director of the South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association( SAMBRA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation( RMI), explains that ADAS technology, like most automotive innovations, began as a luxury feature but the goal now is to make them more affordable for everyone.
Industry forecasts predict significant growth in the global ADAS market due to lower sensor costs, increased demand for safety features, and regulatory mandates. Key industry players are focusing on innovation and efficiency to improve user experience.
Hanekom emphasizes that the rapid adoption of ADAS is not only changing vehicle manufacturing but also the repair industry, as motor body repairers must upskill to manage repairs on these complex systems.
A significant challenge in ADAS development is creating components that are both lightweight and durable. Engineers are using advanced materials like aluminum, magnesium, and carbon fiber-reinforced polymers to decrease weight while maintaining strength. Miniaturization is also essential to seamlessly integrate these components into vehicle designs without affecting performance.
“ The complexity of these systems means that repair professionals must understand the intricacies of recalibrating sensors and cameras post-repair to maintain vehicle safety standards and must have access to the correct tools and technology to do this,” Hanekom stresses.
“ With the increasing complexity and sophistication of ADAS components, maintaining strict quality control during production and repair is essential for ensuring long-term vehicle safety,” Hanekom says.
THE TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT OF ADAS ON SOUTH AFRICA’ S AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR
As the automotive industry progresses towards increased autonomy, ADAS technology will remain an essential building block. He emphasizes that there is a growing trend to develop smaller, more efficient, and affordable sensors, as car manufacturers aim to integrate these systems subtly without affecting the vehicle’ s appearance.
Hanekom concludes,“ The rise of ADAS technology presents both challenges and opportunities for South Africa’ s motor repair industry. The key to staying competitive lies in ongoing training and embracing new technologies to ensure that repairers can support these advancements. As the automotive world continues its shift toward smarter, safer vehicles, South African motorists and repair professionals alike must adapt to these transformative trends.”
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