AUTO LOCKSMITHS
AUTOWAVE EMPHASISES THE ‘ KEY ’ TO KEY PROGRAMMING SUCCESS
In Autowave ’ s latest Locksmith Journal article , its CEO , Ravi Kotecha , explains how offering car key services can boost both footfall and profitability for locksmiths . He also dives into industry trends and explains how the company he founded is adapting and thriving in the face of new technologies and challenges .
Q Tell us about Autowave :
Ravi Kotecha ( RK ): “ Autowave is an independent auto locksmith and key supplier specialising in programming equipment and keys . Our headquarters are in Nottingham , with a distribution centre in Bucharest , Romania , and a production facility in Shenzhen , China .
“ We manufacture and supply industryrecognised products and are a go-to distributor for Chinese manufacturers . This gives us autonomy over quality , availability and pricing .”
“ We also place huge emphasis on customer service ; our dedicated , knowledgeable and professional team is readily available to answer any queries – whether that be general or specific to a product . We live and breathe keys , so our technical ability is outstanding .
“ All of those ingredients mean we are trusted and renowned brand within the locksmithing community .”
Q How can locksmiths benefit from Autowave ’ s equipment ?
RK : “ Our products are designed for modular growth . We help locksmiths expand their capabilities by offering tailored solutions based on their goals . As they invest in more equipment , they can increase their service offerings , revenue and , ultimately , their bottom line .”
Q How do you see Autowave adapting as new technology continues to be introduced into vehicles ?
RK : “ Our responsibility is to remain ahead of the curve in the development of all components . It ’ s crucial to recognise , however , that despite advancements , like phone apps and keyless entry systems , a mechanical key will always serve as a back-up method to access a vehicle . This reliance on a physical key will persist for at least the next two decades .
“ Keyless systems vary , but when programming a keyless car , the procedure mirrors that of a standard remote key : a key and remote are acquired , and it is then programmed using an OBD or other required methods for vehicle in question .
“ Two notable trends are emerging : the integration of phone apps by manufacturers as optional extras . In the aftermarket , solutions are available to pair the app with the car , although widespread adoption in UK society will take time .
“ The other trend to monitor the influence of EVs and hybrids ; while their modular nature differs from traditional vehicles , key programming remains consistent across generations . Despite potential variations in components , like the engine control unit ( ECU ), immobiliser programming remains unchanged . As EV technology evolves , key programming methods may change , but for now , programming procedures remain consistent .”
Q How has the locksmith industry evolved ?
RK : “ Despite challenges , like supply issues and economic uncertainties , we have found the industry to be resilient and productive . This has been helped by increased awareness , training initiatives and adaptations to supply chain dynamics . Consequently , this has contributed to a positive long-term future .
“ As a company , we are investing and growing – that is the confidence we have in the sector ’ s strength and ability to succeed in the coming years . By working together and championing the market , the industry will continue to adapt and , ultimately , thrive .”
Q Do you have any exciting plans for 2025 ?
RK : “ Absolutely ! We are about to launch a new training centre . We also anticipate the release of new programming equipment from various manufacturers , along with our own range of products .
“ We ’ re also expanding our same-day distribution network . Soon , locksmiths across the UK will be able to receive Autowave keys within an hour , with nationwide coverage growing weekly . This is huge news for the market as demand increases and expectation heightens .”
For more information about Autowave and its range of products and services , please visit www . autowave . co . uk
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SEPTEMBER 2024
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