Program open to both dealer an independent repair facilities. Includes specific facility, training and equipment requirements to repair the Cadillac CT6 along with annual on-site audits.
General Motors (NYSE:GM) announced the launch of its Cadillac Aluminum Repair Network in conjunction with the upcoming production of the Cadillac CT6 at the end of 2015.
The Cadillac CT6 uses an advanced mixed material approach for its lightweight body structure. The aluminum intensive structure also includes 11 different materials to achieve strength, performance and efficiency thresholds.
Initial shipments of the vehicle to dealers are expected in March.
Last summer at NACE, CollisionWeek spoke with John Eck, manager wholesale dealer channel for General Motors, who described some of the details of the network including the facility verification process, the size of the network and restrictions that will be placed by GM on the sale of structural parts. Our video is below.
According to Eck, GM dealers will verify the VIN of the vehicle and that the repair facility is part of its network before releasing structural parts for collision repairs to the vehicle.
The Cadillac Aluminum Repair Network will ensure that authorized collision repair facilities have the required tools, equipment, processing procedures, and training to properly repair the vehicle. Facilities that participate in the network, both authorized dealers and independent body shops will undergo annual audits as part of their continuation in the program. These audits will provide Cadillac with a process to verify the shop’s compliance with the network requirements. It also establishes a level of consistency between all participating shops that allows Cadillac to promote the Cadillac Aluminum Repair Network to Cadillac CT6 owners.
Cadillac has produced a consumer brochure that describes the benefits of using its network for collision repairs to its new CT6. Click on the image above to download the brochure.
Training will be primarily web based and orchestrated through a combined effort between GM and I-CAR. In addition, GM will support the collision repair industry by offering the CT6 collision repair information at no charge.
Information on the Cadillac Aluminum Repair Network is available online, including a body shop participation agreement and other documents. In the first quarter of 2016 technical documents, service bulletins, paint information, warranty information, VIN, and other information will be available.
Repair facilities are required to be I-CAR Gold Class or have Verifacts VQ status. Equipment requirements include specific aluminum MIG welders, structural riveting tools, aluminum isolation bay/curtain, an aluminum particulate extraction system, aluminum dent repair equipment and a structural repair bench with necessary fixtures for the vehicle.
Axalta Coating Systems (NYSE:AXTA) has been selected to provide implementation and ongoing support for the program.